Conduction is the process of heat transfer through direct contact between particles of a substance. It occurs when there is a temperature difference between two regions of a substance, causing the higher energy particles to transfer their thermal energy to the lower energy particles. This transfer of energy continues until the temperature becomes equalized throughout the substance.

Conduction can be better understood by breaking down the process into key points:

1. Direct particle contact: Conduction occurs when particles within a substance come into direct contact with each other. These particles can be atoms, molecules, or even electrons.

2. Vibrational motion: In a substance, particles are constantly in motion. They vibrate around their equilibrium positions. When heated, the particles gain energy and their vibrational motion increases.

3. Transfer of energy: As the particles vibrate more vigorously, they collide with neighboring particles and transfer some of their energy to them. This transfer of energy from higher energy particles to lower energy particles continues throughout the substance.

4. No overall movement: Importantly, conduction does not involve the actual movement of particles from one place to another. Instead, it is the transfer of energy from particle to particle without any net movement of the particles themselves.

5. Solids as good conductors: Solids are generally better conductors of heat compared to liquids and gases because their particles are closely packed together, allowing for more frequent collisions and efficient transfer of energy.

Examples of conduction can be observed in everyday life. For instance, when you touch a metal spoon that has been left in a hot cup of tea, the heat from the spoon is conducted to your hand, causing it to feel warm. Similarly, when you place a metal pan on a hot stove, the heat is conducted from the stove to the pan, heating the food inside.

In conclusion, conduction is the process of heat transfer through direct contact between particles of a substance. It occurs without the actual movement of particles and is responsible for the transfer of thermal energy from regions of higher temperature to regions of lower temperature.