Question

What does it mean for 2 objects to be in thermal equilibrium and why is temperature not the only factor used in the "method of mixtures" to determine where that equilibrium falls?

Answer 1

Two objects to be in thermal equilibrium means, they are said to have the same temperature. During the thermodynamic process in reaching the thermal equilibrium, heat energy is transferred between the objects. Once they reach thermal equilibrium, neither of the objects will exchange energy by heat or electromagnetic radiation if they are placed in thermal contact.

A said above, thermal equilibrium means, they are said to have the same temperature. Every substance has a different heat capacity, which means the quantity of heat required to rais the temperature of the substance by . So their heat capacity and the given mass also determines the equilibrium temperature.

For example, just think whether the same amount of heat is required to boil and water and oil, each of the same mass.