Question

What is the difference between Conduction and Convection?

Answer 1

Conduction transfers heat via direct molecular collision. An area with greater kinetic energy will transfer thermal energy to an area with lower kinetic energy. Higher-speed particles will collide with slower-speed particles. The slower-speed particles will increase in kinetic energy as a result. Conduction is the most common form of heat transfer and occurs via physical contact. Examples would be to place your hand against a window or place metal into an open flame.

Convection: When a fluid, such as air or a liquid, is heated and then travels away from the source, it carries the thermal energy along. This type of heat transfer is called convection. The fluid above a hot surface expands, becomes less dense, and rises.