Conduction and convection- processes understanding

In summary, the conversation discusses heat transfer processes in a simple example of a pot on a hot plate. The vessel is heated through the hot plate and heat travels from the hot plate to the bottom of the vessel through conduction. Then, the heat travels from the bottom of the vessel to the fluid through natural convection, as the fluid rises up by buoyancy. The person asks if their understanding of the processes is correct, and it is confirmed that they are, with some clarifications.
  • #1
Sahil Dev
21
0
Hi,

I shall be grateful if someone can throw light on the heat transfer processes taking place through in this very simple example.

Consider the attached image (pdf). See figure (c) which I have also marked in red block. It is pot lying on a hot plate.

I want to know the heat transfer processes taking place in this mechanism.

1) Firstly, the vessel is heated through the hot plate
2) Heat travels from the hot place to the bottom of the vessel
3) IS this process conduction that is taking place between the hot plate and the bottom of the vessel ?
4) Then the heat travels from the bottom of the vessel to the fluid (Assuming the vessel is filled with fluid). IS this process natural convection as the fluid rises up by buoyancy?

Are all my points 1,2,3,4 correct?

Thanks
 

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  • #2
Sahil Dev said:
Hi,

I shall be grateful if someone can throw light on the heat transfer processes taking place through in this very simple example.

Consider the attached image (pdf). See figure (c) which I have also marked in red block. It is pot lying on a hot plate.

I want to know the heat transfer processes taking place in this mechanism.

1) Firstly, the vessel is heated through the hot plate
2) Heat travels from the hot place to the bottom of the vessel
3) IS this process conduction that is taking place between the hot plate and the bottom of the vessel ?
4) Then the heat travels from the bottom of the vessel to the fluid (Assuming the vessel is filled with fluid). IS this process natural convection as the fluid rises up by buoyancy?

Are all my points 1,2,3,4 correct?

Thanks

This is very similar to your previous thread(s). Are these questions for schoolwork?
 
  • #3
No.

I'm doing a self study course on heat transfer as I need it for a purpose/

The previous threads were on radiation and then thermal resistance.

The above questions weren't there.
 
  • #4
Sahil Dev said:
No.

I'm doing a self study course on heat transfer as I need it for a purpose/

The previous threads were on radiation and then thermal resistance.

The above questions weren't there.

Even self-study work should go in the Homework Help forums. I will move this there and reply...
 
  • #5
Sahil Dev said:
1) Firstly, the vessel is heated through the hot plate
2) Heat travels from the hot place to the bottom of the vessel
3) IS this process conduction that is taking place between the hot plate and the bottom of the vessel ?
4) Then the heat travels from the bottom of the vessel to the fluid (Assuming the vessel is filled with fluid). IS this process natural convection as the fluid rises up by buoyancy?

-1- Yes
-2- Yes
-3- Yes
-4- Sort of. The heat is conducted to the liquid at the bottom (and sides) of the vessel, and then "advection" is the process that moves heat through the liquid (I believe). Then also convection is the process that transfers heat from the liquid to the air at the surface of the liquid.

Please have a look at the wikipedia page for more details and a more precise description: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heat_transfer
 

FAQ: Conduction and convection- processes understanding

What is conduction and how does it differ from convection?

Conduction is the transfer of heat or electricity through a material or between two objects that are in direct contact. Convection, on the other hand, is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). While conduction occurs through direct contact, convection requires the movement of particles.

What are some examples of conduction in everyday life?

Conduction is a common occurrence in our daily lives. Examples include using a metal spoon to stir hot soup, feeling the warmth from a hot stove when standing near it, and using a heating pad to warm up sore muscles. It is also the process by which heat is transferred from our bodies to the cold air when we are outside on a chilly day.

How does convection contribute to weather patterns?

Convection plays a significant role in weather patterns. As the sun heats up the Earth's surface, the air above it also heats up and rises. As this hot air rises, it cools and eventually sinks back down to the surface. This creates a circular movement of air, known as convection currents, which helps to distribute heat and moisture around the Earth, ultimately influencing weather patterns.

Can conduction and convection be used for cooling purposes?

Yes, both conduction and convection can be utilized for cooling purposes. Conduction cooling involves transferring heat from a hot object to a cooler object through direct contact. An example of this is placing a hot pan in a sink of cold water. Convection cooling, on the other hand, involves using a fluid (typically air or water) to carry heat away from an object. This is commonly seen in refrigerators and air conditioning units.

How does understanding conduction and convection help us in our everyday lives?

Understanding conduction and convection can help us in various ways in our daily lives. It allows us to better manage the temperature in our homes and workspaces, as well as in cooking and food preservation. It also helps us understand weather patterns and how they can impact our daily activities. Additionally, knowledge of these processes is crucial in fields such as engineering, materials science, and meteorology.

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