Physics GCSE
Thermal equilibrium and temperature change
What Thermal equilibrium and temperature change means in Physics GCSE, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Thermal equilibrium and temperature change
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Thermal equilibrium and temperature change in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
When the rates of absorption and emission are equal, the temperature stays constant; otherwise the temperature rises or falls.
Topics that use Thermal equilibrium and temperature change
- Beyond Earth (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- Absorption and emission of radiation
- Artificial satellites: geostationary and polar orbits
- Constant speed with changing direction
- Cosmic microwave background radiation
- Effect of the atmosphere on electromagnetic radiation
- Equilibrium between collapse and expansion
- Gravitational force towards the centre
- Greenhouse effect and Earth's temperature
Using Thermal equilibrium and temperature change in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge