Conduction, Convection, Radiation

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of thermal energy through direct contact between materials. It occurs when heat moves from a hotter object to a cooler one through physical contact.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of thermal energy through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). It occurs when warmer, less dense fluid rises and cooler, denser fluid sinks, creating a circulation pattern.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of thermal energy through electromagnetic waves. It does not require a medium (like air or water) to transfer heat, allowing it to occur through space.

Front

How does heat transfer occur in a vacuum?

Back

In a vacuum, heat transfer occurs only through radiation, as there are no particles to conduct or convect heat.

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that reduces the flow of heat. Examples include rubber, glass, and certain plastics.

Front

What is a conductor?

Back

A conductor is a material that allows heat to flow through it easily. Metals like copper and aluminum are good conductors.

Front

What happens to heat during conduction?

Back

During conduction, heat moves from the hotter substance to the cooler substance until thermal equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is an example of convection in everyday life?

Back

An example of convection is boiling water, where hot water rises to the top and cooler water sinks to the bottom, creating a circular motion.

Front

What is the direction of heat flow?

Back

Heat always flows from a hotter substance to a colder substance.

Front

How does radiation heat the Earth?

Back

The Sun emits radiation that travels through space and warms the Earth when it reaches its surface.