Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of the particles in a substance. In simpler terms, it tells us how hot or cold an object is. Temperature is measured using scales such as Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F), and Kelvin (K). The Kelvin scale is particularly important in scientific studies because it starts at absolute zero, the theoretical point where particles have minimal kinetic energy. 

Heat, on the other hand, is a form of energy transfer between objects due to a temperature difference. When you touch a hot stove, the heat from the stove transfers to your hand, making it feel hot. This transfer of energy can occur in three ways:

1. Conduction: Direct transfer of heat through a material. For example, a metal spoon gets hot when its end is placed in boiling water.

2. Convection: Transfer of heat by the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). An example is the warm air circulating in a room when a heater is turned on.

3. Radiation: Transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves. The warmth you feel from the sun is due to radiative heat transfer.

While temperature is a measure of how hot or cold something is, heat refers to the energy transferred due to temperature differences. This distinction is crucial: adding heat to an object can increase its temperature, but the amount of heat needed depends on the object's specific heat capacity, mass, and the temperature change desired.