Question

what is the main difference between thermal energy and kinetic energy?
a. thermal energy is related to the motion of an object, while kinetic energy is related to temperature.
b. kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while thermal energy is the total energy of all particles in a substance.
c. thermal energy can only be found in liquids, while kinetic energy can be found in solids and gases.
d. kinetic energy increases with temperature, while thermal energy does not change.

Explanation:

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion of an object. Thermal energy is the total kinetic and potential energy of all the particles in a substance. Option A has the definitions reversed. Thermal energy is not limited to liquids (so C is wrong). Thermal energy does change with temperature (so D is wrong).

Answer:

B. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while thermal energy is the total energy of all particles in a substance.