Question

What is the key difference between conduction and convection?

Options

• Conduction needs a medium; convection does not

• In conduction, molecules move; in convection, they only vibrate

• In conduction, molecules vibrate in place; in convection, molecules physically move

• Both are identical processes in solids

Answer 1

In conduction, molecules vibrate in place; in convection, molecules physically move

Explanation:

In conduction, energy passes from molecule to molecule by vibration without molecules leaving their positions. In convection, the heated molecules themselves travel through the fluid, carrying heat.