[Campbell Biology P.95] What is the primary difference between temperature and thermal ener... | Practice Question

What is the primary difference between temperature and thermal energy, according to the provided text?

  • A: Temperature represents the total kinetic energy, while thermal energy is the average kinetic energy.
  • B: Temperature reflects the average kinetic energy of molecules regardless of volume, whereas thermal energy reflects the total kinetic energy and depends on volume.
  • C: Temperature is the transfer of thermal energy, while thermal energy is the stored form of heat.
  • D: Temperature depends on the volume of matter, while thermal energy does not.

Explanation

The text states: 'Temperature represents the average kinetic energy of the molecules in a body of matter, regardless of volume, whereas the thermal energy of a body of matter reflects the total kinetic energy, and thus depends on the matter's volume.'