When you heat an object with fire, the thermal energy from the particles in the fire is transferred

to the
object, increasing the object's internal energy. This internal energy primarily increases the kinetic energy
of the particles in the object. Here's a more detailed breakdown of this process:

Thermal Energy Transfer:

Conduction: If the object is in direct contact with the flames or a hot surface, thermal energy is transferred
through conduction. The high-energy particles in the fire collide with the particles in the object,
transferring energy to them.
Convection: If the object is heated by hot gases from the fire, thermal energy is transferred through
convection. The hot gases circulate around the object, transferring energy to the object's surface.
Radiation: Fire also emits thermal energy in the form of infrared radiation (and visible light). This
radiation is absorbed by the object, increasing its energy.
Increase in Kinetic Energy:

Molecular Motion: As the object absorbs thermal energy, the kinetic energy of its particles increases. This
means the particles move faster. In solids, this is seen as increased vibrational motion of atoms within the
lattice structure. In liquids, the particles move more rapidly while remaining close together. In gases, the
particles move faster and are more widely spaced.
Temperature Rise: The increase in the kinetic energy of the particles manifests as a rise in temperature of
the object.
Phase Changes (if applicable):

Melting: If the object reaches its melting point, thermal energy goes into breaking the bonds holding the
solid together, causing it to become a liquid. During this phase change, the temperature remains constant
despite the input of energy because the energy is used to change the state rather than increase kinetic
energy.
Boiling: If the object reaches its boiling point, thermal energy goes into breaking the bonds holding the
liquid together, causing it to become a gas. Again, the temperature remains constant during this phase
change for the same reason.
Practical Example:

Heating a Metal Rod: When a metal rod is heated by placing it in a fire, thermal energy from the fire's hot
gases and radiant heat is transferred to the rod. The atoms in the metal rod gain kinetic energy and vibrate
more vigorously, causing the temperature of the rod to rise. If the rod is heated sufficiently, it may glow
due to the increased thermal motion of its atoms, and if heated further, it could melt.
In summary, when you heat an object with fire, the thermal energy from the particles in the fire is
transferred to the object, increasing the kinetic energy of the object's particles and raising its temperature.
If enough thermal energy is provided, it can also cause phase changes in the object.