Which of the following best describes conduction?
A
Conduction is the transfer of thermal energy using waves through space or through a material medium.
B
Conduction is when thermal energy is transferred by the motion of liquids or gases of varying densities.
C
Conduction is the movement of thermal energy directly from one particle to another particle through contact.
D
Conduction is the increase in thermal energy created by the restriction of the movement of energy particles.
C
Conduction is the movement of thermal energy directly from one particle to another particle through contact.
C
Conduction is the movement of thermal energy directly from one particle to another particle through contact.
The correct answer is C. Conduction is the movement of thermal energy directly from one particle to another particle through contact. To arrive at this answer, we can look at the different options and assess which one accurately describes conduction.
Option A states that conduction involves the transfer of thermal energy using waves through space or a material medium. However, this is a description of convection rather than conduction. Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of liquids or gases.
Option B suggests that conduction occurs when thermal energy is transferred by the motion of liquids or gases of varying densities. While this statement seems somewhat related to convection, it doesn't accurately specify the direct transfer of thermal energy between particles through contact, as is the case in conduction.
Option C correctly defines conduction as the movement of thermal energy directly from one particle to another particle through contact. This process occurs when two particles come into direct contact with each other, allowing thermal energy to flow from the warmer particle to the cooler one.
Option D presents an incorrect description of conduction. Restricting the movement of energy particles would not lead to an increase in thermal energy but rather a decrease.
Therefore, option C, which describes conduction as the direct transfer of thermal energy between particles through contact, is the most accurate choice.