2.3.2

Convection

4 flashcards to master Convection

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Definition Flip

State what convection is and in what type of materials it occurs.

Answer Flip

Convection is the process by which thermal energy is transferred through a fluid (liquid or gas) by the movement of the fluid itself. It occurs in liquids and gases.

Key Concept Flip

Explain why convection does not occur in solids. Use your knowledge of particle arrangement and movement.

Answer Flip

Convection relies on the bulk movement of particles to transfer thermal energy. In solids, particles are held in fixed positions and cannot move freely to create convection currents. The particles can only vibrate.

Key Concept Flip

Explain, in terms of density changes, how a radiator heats a room. (Assume the radiator is filled with hot water.)

Answer Flip

1. The radiator heats the air directly next to it (thermal).
2. The hot air expands, becoming less dense.
3. The less dense hot air rises (convection current).
4. Cooler, denser air sinks to take its place, creating a convection current that distributes heat throughout the room.
Explanation: Convection relies on the movement of fluids (liquids or gases) due to density differences caused by temperature variations. Hotter fluids are less dense and rise, while cooler fluids are denser and sink.

Key Concept Flip

Describe a simple laboratory experiment to demonstrate convection in a liquid, such as water. Include the equipment needed and the observations you would expect to make.

Answer Flip

Equipment: Beaker, water, potassium permanganate crystals (or dye), heat source (

Example: Bunsen burner). Procedure: Place the beaker on a heatproof mat and fill it with water. Gently drop a few crystals of potassium permanganate into the water at one side of the bottom of the beaker. Apply heat to the bottom of the beaker near the crystals. Observation: A stream of coloured water will rise from the bottom, move across the top, cool and sink at the other side, forming a convection current.

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2.3.1 Conduction 2.3.3 Radiation

Key Questions: Convection

State what convection is and in what type of materials it occurs.

Convection is the process by which thermal energy is transferred through a fluid (liquid or gas) by the movement of the fluid itself. It occurs in liquids and gases.

About Convection (2.3.2)

These 4 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Convection for your Cambridge IGCSE Physics (0625) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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