How does convection work?

Convection works by the circulation of liquid or gas, which is a fundamental principle in the transfer of heat. In this process, warmer areas of a liquid or gas rise, while cooler areas sink. This movement creates a continuous flow known as a convection current, which effectively transfers heat throughout the substance.

In cooking, for example, when a pot of water is heated, the water at the bottom becomes hotter and less dense, causing it to rise to the top. As it rises, cooler water descends to take its place, creating a cycle that evenly distributes heat throughout the pot. This mechanism is crucial in various culinary techniques, such as boiling and baking, where even cooking and consistent temperatures are desired.

Other methods listed, such as conduction, microwave radiation, or direct exposure to flames, involve different processes of heat transfer and do not encompass the cyclical motion that characterizes convection.