How is heat transferred in Conduction?

Heat transfer through conduction occurs when heat energy is transmitted via direct contact between materials. When two objects at different temperatures come into contact, the molecules in the hotter object vibrate more rapidly and, through collisions, transfer some of their kinetic energy to the molecules in the cooler object. This process continues until thermal equilibrium is achieved, meaning both objects reach the same temperature.

In conduction, the medium, such as a metal rod or a pot over a flame, facilitates this energy transfer purely through the physical interactions between adjacent particles, without any movement of the medium itself over distances. This is different from heat transfer mechanisms like convection or radiation.

Convection involves the movement of fluids (like air or water) carrying heat with them, while radiation involves the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, without needing a medium. Given this context, "direct contact" accurately describes the mechanism of conduction.