Thermal energy transfer can occur through 3 ways:
- **Conduction**: This is the transfer of thermal energy through direct contact between particles. In this process, heat energy flows from a region of higher temperature to a region of lower temperature. For example, when a metal spoon is placed in a hot cup of tea, the heat is transferred from the tea to the spoon through conduction.
- **Convection**: This is the transfer of thermal energy through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). In convection, the warmer part of the fluid rises, while the cooler part sinks, creating a circular motion that transfers heat. An example of convection is the heating of a room through a radiator.
- **Radiation**: This is the transfer of thermal energy in the form of electromagnetic waves. Unlike conduction and convection, radiation does not require a medium to transfer heat. Objects emit infrared radiation based on their temperature, and this radiation can be absorbed by other objects, heating them up. An example of radiation is the heat we feel from the sun.
In conclusion, thermal energy transfer can occur through conduction, convection, and radiation, with each mechanism playing a role in everyday heat transfer processes.