What is the term for heat transfer by gas flow or air movement?

The term for heat transfer by gas flow or air movement is convection. This process occurs when warmer air or gas rises due to being less dense, while cooler air moves in to take its place, creating a continuous flow. This cycle effectively transfers heat throughout a space, which is critical in understanding how heat behaves in various environments, especially during fire investigations.

On the other hand, radiation refers to the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves, primarily not requiring a medium, while conduction is the direct transfer of heat through materials that are in contact with each other, requiring a medium such as solid materials. Absorption involves the uptake of energy, which does not specifically relate to the movement of gas or air. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the mechanisms related to heat transfer phenomena, particularly in the context of fire behavior and investigation.