Convection, Conduction and Radiation

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). Warm fluid rises while cooler fluid sinks, creating a current.

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials. Heat moves from the hotter object to the cooler one.

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

How does heat transfer occur in a pot on a stove?

Back

Heat is transferred from the stove to the pot through conduction.

Front

What happens to air when it is heated?

Back

When air is heated, it becomes less dense and rises, creating convection currents.

Front

What is the direction of heat flow?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of radiation?

Back

An example of radiation is the warmth felt from the sun on your skin.

Front

What is an example of convection?

Back

An example of convection is the warm air rising near the ceiling of a room.

Front

What is an example of conduction?

Back

An example of conduction is touching a hot metal spoon and feeling the heat transfer to your hand.

Front

What role does density play in convection?

Back

Density differences in fluids cause warmer, less dense fluid to rise and cooler, denser fluid to sink, creating convection currents.