Conduction, Convection, Radiation

Front

What is conduction?

Back

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

Front

Give an example of conduction.

Back

An example of conduction is when a metal spoon is placed in a hot pot of soup. The heat from the soup transfers to the spoon, making it hot.

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.

Front

Give an example of convection.

Back

An example of convection is boiling water. The hot water at the bottom rises to the top, while cooler water descends, creating a circular motion.

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves. It does not require a medium, so it can occur in a vacuum.

Front

Give an example of radiation.

Back

An example of radiation is the heat from the sun warming your skin. The heat travels through space and reaches us without needing air.

Front

How does conduction differ from convection?

Back

Conduction occurs through direct contact between materials, while convection involves the movement of fluids to transfer heat.

Front

How does radiation differ from conduction and convection?

Back

Radiation does not require a medium to transfer heat, while conduction and convection do.

Front

What materials are good conductors of heat?

Back

Good conductors of heat include metals like copper and aluminum.

Front

What materials are good insulators?

Back

Good insulators include materials like wood, plastic, and rubber, which do not conduct heat well.