Conduction, Convection and Radiation

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 particles, transferring energy.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat 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 heat in the form of electromagnetic waves. It does not require a medium to travel through, allowing heat to be transferred through empty space.

Front

Example of conduction in everyday life?

Back

Touching a hot metal spoon that has been in a pot of boiling water.

Front

Example of convection in everyday life?

Back

Boiling water in a pot, where hot water rises and cooler water sinks.

Front

Example of radiation in everyday life?

Back

Feeling warmth from the sun or a campfire without direct contact.

Front

How does conduction occur in metals?

Back

In metals, conduction occurs because of free-moving electrons that transfer energy quickly between atoms.

Front

How does convection affect weather patterns?

Back

Convection currents in the atmosphere can lead to the formation of clouds and storms as warm air rises and cool air sinks.

Front

What is the role of insulation in heat transfer?

Back

Insulation reduces heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation, keeping heat in or out of a space.

Front

How does a thermos bottle minimize heat transfer?

Back

A thermos bottle minimizes heat transfer by using vacuum insulation to reduce conduction and convection, and reflective surfaces to reduce radiation.