High School

What is the primary mode of heat transfer in a vacuum?

A. Conduction
B. Convection
C. Radiation
D. Convection and Radiation

Answer :

The primary mode of heat transfer in a vacuum is C) Radiation.


A vacuum is a space devoid of matter. This means there are no particles (like molecules or atoms) to facilitate heat transfer through conduction or convection.

  1. Conduction: This is the process where heat is transferred through direct contact between particles. Since a vacuum has no particles, conduction cannot occur.

  2. Convection: This method involves the movement of heat through a fluid (gas or liquid). Again, in a vacuum, there are no fluids to move heat around.

  3. Radiation: This is the transfer of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves. It can travel through a vacuum. For example, the heat from the Sun reaches Earth through the vacuum of space by radiation.