What condition must be satisfied for two systems in thermal contact to be considered…
PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics
Problem
What condition must be satisfied for two systems in thermal contact to be considered in thermal equilibrium?
(a) Their internal energies are equal even if energy is still being exchanged.
(b) They possess the same specific heat capacity, ensuring equal temperature change for any energy input.
(c) Their temperatures are equal so that there is no net thermal energy transfer between them.
(d) They gain and lose thermal energy at equal rates, so heat continues to flow but with no net change.