What is the mode of heat transfer that occurs by transmission of heat by the circulation of a liquid or a gas?

What is the mode of heat transfer that occurs by transmission of heat by the circulation of a liquid or a gas?

• A. Conduction
• B. Convection
• C. Radiation
• D. Thermal conduction

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is related to the process known as convection, which is the mode of heat transfer that involves the movement of fluids—either liquids or gases. In convection, heat is transferred as the warmer, less dense portions of the fluid rise while cooler, denser portions sink, creating a circulation pattern. This process allows heat to be distributed throughout the fluid medium. For example, when heating a pot of water on the stove, the water at the bottom heats up first, becomes less dense, and rises to the top while cooler water descends. This circulation enables efficient heat distribution, which is a key characteristic of convection. Other forms of heat transfer, such as conduction, involve direct transfer of heat through a material without any movement of the material itself. Radiation, on the other hand, involves the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves and does not require a medium. These distinctions clarify why convection is the correct answer in this context.

The correct answer is related to the process known as convection, which is the mode of heat transfer that involves the movement of fluids—either liquids or gases. In convection, heat is transferred as the warmer, less dense portions of the fluid rise while cooler, denser portions sink, creating a circulation pattern. This process allows heat to be distributed throughout the fluid medium.

For example, when heating a pot of water on the stove, the water at the bottom heats up first, becomes less dense, and rises to the top while cooler water descends. This circulation enables efficient heat distribution, which is a key characteristic of convection.

Other forms of heat transfer, such as conduction, involve direct transfer of heat through a material without any movement of the material itself. Radiation, on the other hand, involves the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves and does not require a medium. These distinctions clarify why convection is the correct answer in this context.