Question

Convection is the process of heat transfer in:
(A) Solid
(B) Liquid
(C) Semi-solid
(D) None of the above

Answer 1

Hint To answer this question, we need to look into the basic definition of Convection. Then we have to find the required condition for this phenomenon to take place. Convection is a mode of heat transfer where molecules of medium transfer heat by moving from higher temperature to low temperature.

Complete step-by-step solution
Convection is one of the phenomena which are responsible for the heat transfer within the matter. We know that there are three different modes of transfer of heat within the matter. These are conduction, convection, and radiation. While the conduction is carried out as a result of the temperature difference between the two adjacent points in a matter, the radiation is carried by the electromagnetic waves. In both of these phenomena, there is no need for the matter itself to be moved for transferring the heat.
But the convection is a phenomenon in which actual movement of the matter is involved. The part of the matter which is directly heated becomes light, and rises up and takes the place of the colder part of the matter. Then the colder part becomes heated and this cycle goes on. This way the heat transfer within the matter takes place.
So convection can occur only in the matter which is capable of showing motion. We know that the solids and the semi solids cannot show any kind of motion. So convection cannot occur in these.
So the options A and C are incorrect.
But as we know that the liquids have the capability of flowing. So convection can take place in liquids.
Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Note
The process of convection, which has been discussed in this question, is responsible for many day to day phenomena. For example, the land is warmer than water during the day, but the opposite is true during the night.