What method describes the transfer of heat through direct contact?

The method that describes the transfer of heat through direct contact is conduction. In conduction, heat energy is transferred between materials that are in direct physical contact with each other. When particles of a hotter object collide with particles of a cooler object, they transfer kinetic energy, resulting in an increase in the temperature of the cooler substance. This process occurs in solids, where the molecules are closely packed together, allowing for efficient energy transfer.

Understanding conduction is essential in fire and life safety education because it relates to how heat spreads through building materials, affecting how quickly a fire can spread and how firefighters manage fire suppression. Recognizing the significance of this heat transfer method can enhance awareness of fire risks and the importance of materials used in construction and safety practices.