How is thermal energy transferred during convection?

Thermal energy is transferred during convection primarily through the movement of fluids, such as liquids or gases. In this process, warmer areas within the fluid become less dense and rise, while cooler areas become denser and sink. This creates a convective current, effectively transporting heat throughout the fluid.

Convection is distinct from the conduction that occurs through physical contact since it relies on the motion of the fluid itself to facilitate the transfer of heat. Unlike electromagnetic waves, which can transfer energy through a vacuum, or mechanical waves, which propagate through a medium via vibrations, convection relies solely on the bulk movement of the fluid to transfer thermal energy. This is why the transfer of thermal energy during convection is characterized specifically by movement in fluids.