Answer: If there is no net thermal energy flow between two physical systems when they are connected by a heat-permeable channel, the systems are said to be in thermal equilibrium. The first law of thermodynamics is followed by thermal equilibrium. If the temperature is uniformly distributed throughout the system and remains constant throughout time, the system is said to be in thermal equilibrium with itself.
Following are some illustrations of thermal equilibrium:
(i) The individual drove himself to his destination. The engine temperature was excessively high during that time, but it eventually dropped to the air temperature outside. When the engine temperature eventually reaches the same level as the ambient temperature, thermal equilibrium has taken place.
(ii) After being placed on the table hot, a cup of tea eventually cools down to the same temperature as its surroundings. This is where thermal equilibrium occurs.