Thermal Conduction - GCSE Physics Definition

Thermal conduction is the process through which heat energy is transferred within a material without any movement of the substance itself. Imagine holding one end of a metal spoon in a hot cup of tea; the heat travels from the hot end to the cooler end through thermal conduction. In this process, heat moves because the particles in the hotter part of the material vibrate more and pass on that energy to nearby, less energetic particles. This is most effective in solids, especially metals, because their particles are closely packed and can efficiently transfer heat. Understanding thermal conduction helps explain why some materials feel warmer or cooler to touch and why insulating materials are important for keeping buildings warm.