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Unit 4B
Sun's Energy creating convection vocab. 8th grade
Term | Definition |
---|---|
thermal energy | a form of energy that is the total kinetic energy (motion) of atoms and molecules in matter. (The faster the atoms move, the warmer the matter.) |
atmosphere | the whole mass of air surrounding Earth |
wind | a natural movement of air from an area of high density and pressure to an area of low density and pressure |
air pressure | the force exerted by the atmosphere on Earth’s surface by the weight of the air above the surface |
convection | transfer of thermal energy through circular motion caused by heating and cooling in fluids (liquids and gases) |
Coriolis effect | the apparent deflection (curving) of moving air, as seen by an observer on Earth. It is a result of Earth's rotation. |
ocean currents | directional movement of ocean water; surface currents result from steady winds over the ocean surface; deep currents result from density variations due to temperature and salinity differences. |
anemometer | scientific tool used to measure wind speed |
solar radiation | electromagnetic energy emitted from the Sun; travels through space in waves (rays) |
corona | the outer atmosphere of the sun; visible from Earth during a total solar eclipse |
sun | the star nearest to Earth and the center of our solar system; the source of almost all energy on Earth |
sunspots | short-lived dark spots on the surface of the sun, caused by magnetic activity and slightly cooler than the surrounding area |
atmospheric contents | 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, tiny amounts of other gases |
fluid | any substance that can flow. This includes liquids and gases. |
conduction | transfer of thermal energy that requires contact between the atoms or molecules |