Heat transfer

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials. It occurs when faster-moving particles collide with slower-moving ones, transferring energy. Example: Ironing a shirt.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). Warmer, less dense fluid rises while cooler, denser fluid sinks, creating a circulation pattern. Example: Boiling water.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves. It does not require a medium to travel through. Example: The Sun warming the Earth.

Front

How does the Sun warm the Earth?

Back

The Sun warms the Earth primarily through radiation, as it emits energy in the form of light and heat that travels through space.

Front

What happens when you stir a bowl of hot soup with a metal spoon?

Back

The spoon feels warmer due to conduction, as heat is transferred from the hot soup to the cooler spoon through direct contact.

Front

What is an example of heat transfer through convection?

Back

An example of convection is when warm air rises and cool air sinks, creating a circulation pattern in a room heated by a radiator.

Front

What is the difference between conduction and convection?

Back

Conduction is heat transfer through direct contact, while convection is heat transfer through the movement of fluids.

Front

What is an example of radiation in everyday life?

Back

An example of radiation is feeling warmth from a campfire or the heat from a light bulb.

Front

What is the role of density in convection?

Back

Density affects convection because warmer fluids are less dense and rise, while cooler fluids are denser and sink, creating a cycle.

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that does not conduct heat well, preventing heat transfer. Example: Wood, plastic, and rubber.