Heat transfer: Difference between revisions

There are three different processes for heat transfer. 1) Conduction 2) Convection 3) Radiation

Conduction occurs when energy is transfered by collision of molecules. This can be the flow of heat from a hot part of the body to another part that is cooler. It can also be transfered through two bodies, as long as they are touching and they have a temperature difference. For example it is like a pot of water on a stove. The stove is hot and it is conducting energy to the side of the pot that is touching it.

Convection occurs when energy is transfered by the movement of material. Convection takes place in liquids and gases. This is when hot air rises and cool air tends to lower. Convection is what controls our weather.

Radiation occurs when energy is transfered by electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic waves are seen in the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. An example of this is the way that the sun heats the earth.