Which method describes the transfer of heat by direct contact?

The method that describes the transfer of heat by direct contact is conduction. This process occurs when heat energy moves from a hotter object to a cooler object through physical touch. In conduction, molecules in the hotter object vibrate and transfer their energy to neighboring molecules in the cooler object, thus increasing their energy and temperature.

Conduction is particularly effective in solid materials, where the close proximity of molecules allows for efficient energy transfer. For example, if you place a metal spoon in a hot cup of coffee, the heat from the coffee will transfer directly to the spoon through conduction, making the spoon warm.

In contrast, convection involves the movement of fluids (liquids and gases) where heat is transferred by the bulk movement of the fluid itself, and radiation involves the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves without the need for direct contact or a medium. Evaporation refers to the process of a liquid turning into vapor, which also does not involve direct contact for heat transfer. Thus, conduction is uniquely defined by direct contact for heat exchange.