Thermal inertia

Definition

A delay between energy being supplied to an object and the resulting temperature rise being fully detected.

Used by AQA

Specification 4.1.1.3 · Paper 1

The earliest readings may not form a straight line because of thermal inertia: the heater and block take time to warm, and the thermometer does not respond instantly. Use the later straight-line region and draw a line of best fit.
Revise: Energy changes in systems

Create a free account to read GCSE Physics revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.

GCSE Physics · key term

A delay between energy being supplied to an object and the resulting temperature rise being fully detected.

Used by AQA

Specification 4.1.1.3 · Paper 1

The earliest readings may not form a straight line because of thermal inertia: the heater and block take time to warm, and the thermometer does not respond instantly. Use the later straight-line region and draw a line of best fit.
Revise: Energy changes in systems

Create a free account to read GCSE Physics revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.