Which method of heat transfer occurs through direct contact of particles?

The method of heat transfer that occurs through direct contact of particles is conduction. This process involves the transfer of thermal energy through collisions and interactions between adjacent molecules or particles within a material. When a warmer particle comes into contact with a cooler one, heat energy from the warmer particle is transferred to the cooler particle, increasing its kinetic energy and, therefore, its temperature.

Conduction is the primary means of heat transfer in solids, where tightly packed particles are in close proximity to each other, allowing for efficient energy transfer. Examples include heating a metal spoon in a hot pot of soup or the warmth felt when touching a hot stove.

Understanding conduction is essential in fields like nutrition and food science, as it affects cooking methods and food temperature management.