Write a hypothesis for Part II of the lab, which is about the type of material an object is made of, and its ability to absorb or release thermal energy. Use the format of "if . . . then . . . because . . .” and be sure to answer this part of the lesson question: "How does the type of material affect thermal energy transfer?”

Answer 1

If the type of material an object is made of affects its ability to absorb or release thermal energy, then objects made of metal will transfer thermal energy more efficiently than objects made of plastic, because metal is a better conductor of heat than plastic and can therefore absorb or release thermal energy more quickly.