What is another term for natural convection?

Natural convection refers to the process of fluid movement that occurs due to temperature differences within the fluid, causing it to become less dense and rise, while cooler, denser fluid sinks. This movement creates a circulation pattern driven solely by buoyancy forces, rather than external forces.

The term "thermal convection" is used to describe this process because it emphasizes the role of heat transfer through the fluid as it is heated and cooled. The heat causes variations in density, leading to the natural flow of the fluid without any mechanical assistance. Thus, it appropriately captures the essence of how natural convection operates, focusing on the thermal aspects that initiate and sustain the fluid motion.