Is it possible for heat to be a physical form?

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The discussion revolves around the concept of heat as a physical entity. Participants clarify that while heat exists at the atomic level, it cannot be contained in a tangible form like a jar. Comparisons are made to other abstract concepts that also cannot be physically stored, such as color or speed. The phlogiston theory is referenced to highlight that heat can be generated without consuming substances, emphasizing its intangible nature. The conversation includes a humorous remark about using a "bucket of BTUs" to illustrate the idea, while cautioning about the dangers of heat. Overall, the consensus is that heat, while a physical phenomenon, does not have a physical form that can be jarred or contained.
ARC123
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By physical form I mean stored chemical or actual be a physical thing you can touch. Yes I understand it already is a physical form in atoms but I mean is it possible to have a jar of heat.
 
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You mean like Sterno?
 
No, you can't have a jar of heat. You also can't have a jar of blue (although you can have a jar of blue paint), you can't have a jar of speed, you can't have a jar of acceleration and you can't have a jar of logic. Plenty of things that can't be jarred.
 
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ARC123 said:
By physical form I mean stored chemical or actual be a physical thing you can touch.

The phlogiston theory has been falsified by the experimental observation that heat can be produced in any amount without consuming any other substances. One might consider phonons to be heat-particles but I wouldn't call that a chemical.
 
ARC123 said:
By physical form I mean stored chemical or actual be a physical thing you can touch. Yes I understand it already is a physical form in atoms but I mean is it possible to have a jar of heat.
Well, I always use a bucket of BTUs to warm up on those cold mornings. :rolleyes:

But be careful touching the bucket - you can burn yourself. It is full of heat after all. :wink:
 
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