Heat Transfer: Conduction, Convection, & Radiation

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials. It occurs when particles collide and transfer energy.

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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.

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What is radiation?

Back

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

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the average energy of motion of an object's particles. It is related to the temperature of the substance.

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What is an example of conduction?

Back

An example of conduction is a metal spoon getting hot when placed in a bowl of hot soup.

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What is an example of convection?

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An example of convection is the rising and sinking of water in a pot as it heats up on the stove.

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What is an example of radiation?

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

Front

How does a lava lamp demonstrate convection?

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In a lava lamp, the heated wax rises, cools, and then sinks, creating a continuous flow of movement.

Front

What happens to particles in a substance when it is heated?

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When a substance is heated, its particles move faster and spread apart, increasing its thermal energy.

Front

What is the role of density in convection?

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Density affects convection because warmer fluids are less dense and rise, while cooler fluids are denser and sink.