Final answer:
Thermal energy is the energy associated with the motion of particles in a substance. In the context of the lab objective, the goal is to build steam engine trains that can carry cargo to the end of three different tracks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thermal energy is the energy associated with the motion of particles in a substance. It cannot be directly measured, but the temperature change resulting from the flow of thermal energy between objects or substances can be measured. In the context of the lab objective, the goal is to build steam engine trains that can carry cargo to the end of three different tracks.
This requires an understanding of how thermal energy can be harnessed to create steam and generate the pressure needed to do work, such as moving the pistons that drive the wheels of the train.