Heat is transferred around and through earth in three different ways: conduction, convection, and radiation
1. Conduction: This is the transfer of heat through direct contact between molecules. In the Earth's crust, heat is transferred through conduction from the hot interior of the Earth towards the surface. The rate of conduction is dependent on the material's conductivity, thickness, and temperature gradient.
2. Convection: Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids. In the Earth's mantle, heat is transferred through convective currents of molten rock, known as mantle convection. This process plays a significant role in the movement of tectonic plates and the Earth's geological activity.
3. Radiation: Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves. In the Earth's atmosphere, heat is transferred through radiation from the Sun to the Earth's surface. Solar radiation heats the Earth's surface, which in turn radiates heat back into the atmosphere. Radiation is also a key factor in the Earth's energy balance and climate system.