Convection

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids and gases) caused by differences in temperature and density.

Front

What happens to cooler rock in the asthenosphere that moves away from the heat source?

Back

Cooler rock in the asthenosphere becomes more dense and sinks.

Front

What is the primary mechanism responsible for the movement of crustal plates?

Back

Convection currents in the asthenosphere.

Front

Why does hot material rise in the asthenosphere?

Back

Hot material rises because its density decreases.

Front

What occurs when cold material sinks in the asthenosphere?

Back

Cold material sinks because its density is greater (higher).

Front

What type of plate boundary is formed when convection cells move towards each other?

Back

A convergent plate boundary.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and density in convection?

Back

As temperature increases, density decreases, causing hot materials to rise.

Front

What is an example of convection in everyday life?

Back

Boiling water: hot water rises to the top while cooler water sinks.

Front

What are convection cells?

Back

Convection cells are circular patterns of fluid movement caused by the heating and cooling of the fluid.

Front

How does convection differ from conduction and radiation?

Back

Convection involves the movement of fluids, conduction is heat transfer through direct contact, and radiation is heat transfer through electromagnetic waves.