Physics · Theme B: The particulate nature of matter

B.1 — Thermal energy transfers

Physics · SL / HL · syllabus-mapped notes

1. Molecular theory, temperature and internal energy

   The molecular model, density, the Kelvin and Celsius scales, average kinetic energy, and internal energy.

2. Heat, phase change and latent heat

   Phase changes at constant temperature, and quantitative heat transfer with specific heat capacity and latent heat.

3. Mechanisms of thermal energy transfer

   Conduction, convection and thermal radiation, including the rate of conduction and the Stefan–Boltzmann law.

4. Black-body radiation and stars

   The black-body emission spectrum, Wien’s displacement law, luminosity and apparent brightness.