Conduction, Convection, Radiation Physics

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat energy through molecular contact within a substance.

Front

What is convection?

Back

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

Front

What is radiation?

Back

Radiation is the transfer of heat energy through electromagnetic waves, which can occur in a vacuum.

Front

How does warm air behave in convection?

Back

Warm air rises because it is less dense than cool air, which sinks.

Front

What happens to thermal energy when two objects at different temperatures are in contact?

Back

Thermal energy passes from the warmer object to the cooler object.

Front

What is an example of conduction?

Back

An example of conduction is a metal spoon getting hot when placed in a pot of boiling water.

Front

What is an example of convection?

Back

An example of convection is the Gulf Stream, which transports warm ocean water from the south to the north.

Front

What is an example of radiation?

Back

An example of radiation is the heat from the sun warming the Earth.

Front

What role do density differences play in convection?

Back

Density differences cause fluids to move; warmer, less dense fluid rises while cooler, denser fluid sinks.

Front

How does conduction occur at the molecular level?

Back

Conduction occurs when fast-moving molecules collide with slower-moving molecules, transferring energy.