What is the term for energy transfer through direct touch?

• A. Convection
• B. Conduction
• C. Radiation
• D. Transmission

Answer: (B)

The term that describes energy transfer through direct touch is conduction. This process occurs when two objects at different temperatures come into contact with one another, resulting in the transfer of thermal energy from the hotter object to the cooler one. The molecules in the hotter object move faster and collide with molecules in the cooler object, transferring energy.

In contexts such as cooking, when a metal spoon is placed in a hot pot, the heat is conducted through the spoon, allowing the cooler end of the spoon to eventually become warm. This is a practical example of conduction in action, illustrating how heat transfers through direct contact between materials.

The other terms listed describe different processes: convection refers to the transfer of heat through fluids via the movement of the fluid itself, radiation involves energy transfer through electromagnetic waves without needing a medium, and transmission typically refers to the passage of energy or signals through a medium, which is not limited to direct touch.