Thermal energy is the energy of moving particles that makes up heat. Heat is the transfer of thermal energy between objects when they are at different temperatures. Temperature measures the amount of thermal energy in an object, with higher temperatures indicating more thermal energy. Thermometers measure temperature using liquids that expand when heated, allowing the user to read the temperature in degrees. Thermal conductors easily allow the transfer of heat, like metals, while insulators do not, like plastics and wood. Common materials are identified as conductors or insulators based on their ability to transfer thermal energy.