thermal equilibrium
Quick Summary
Thermal equilibrium is a state in physics where all parts of a system are at the same temperature. This means that there is no net flow of heat between different parts of the system. In a system at thermal equilibrium, properties like temperature, pressure, and density remain constant over time, and no external effects are needed to maintain this state. This condition is a fundamental aspect of thermodynamics, where systems tend towards a state of equilibrium.123
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
permafrostAir temperature and ground temperatureIf the permafrost is in thermal equilibrium, the temperature at the level of zero amplitude is generally regarded as the minimum temperature of the permafrost. Below this depth the temperature increases steadily under the influence of heat from Earth’s interior. The temperature of permafrost at the depth of minimum annual…
Read MoreIf the permafrost is in thermal equilibrium, the temperature at the level of zero amplitude is generally regarded as the minimum temperature of the permafrost. Below this depth the temperature increases steadily under the influence of heat from Earth’s interior. The temperature of permafrost at the depth of minimum annual…
Read More- permafrostPermafrost thawing and frost heaving
The delicate thermal equilibrium of permafrost is disrupted when the vegetation, snow cover, or active layer is compacted. The permafrost table is lowered, the active layer is thickened, and considerable ice is melted. This process lowers the surface and provides (in summer) a wetter active layer with…
Read MoreThe delicate thermal equilibrium of permafrost is disrupted when the vegetation, snow cover, or active layer is compacted. The permafrost table is lowered, the active layer is thickened, and considerable ice is melted. This process lowers the surface and provides (in summer) a wetter active layer with…
Read More