Heat and thermal energy question

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Heat and thermal energy are closely related but not identical concepts. Heat refers to the transfer of energy between bodies due to temperature differences, while thermal energy is the energy contained within a system that increases with temperature. The analogy of thermal energy as potential heat is drawn, likening their relationship to that of work and potential energy. Understanding this distinction clarifies the confusion surrounding the terms. Both concepts are essential for grasping thermodynamics and energy transfer.
kaweezah
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I've read books saying that heat and thermal energy are the same and I've read other books saying they are not the same. I'm confused now. Which of them is right? or maybe they're both right?
 
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They are not exactly the same, but they are very closely related. Heat is a transfer of energy from one body to another due to a difference in temperature. Thermal energy is the portion of energy of a system which increases with temperature.

I kind of think of thermal energy as potential heat. In that sense the relationship between heat and thermal energy is similar to the relationship between work and potential energy.
 

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