What is the primary characteristic of conduction as a heat transfer method?

Conduction is primarily characterized by heat transfer that occurs through direct contact between materials. When two objects at different temperatures come into contact, heat energy is transferred from the warmer object to the cooler one. This process relies on the vibration and movement of molecules in the materials; these molecules collide with each other, facilitating the transfer of thermal energy.

In conduction, the physical state of the materials in contact plays a significant role in efficiency; solids, especially metals, are generally good conductors of heat due to their closely packed molecules and ability to transfer energy quickly through direct interaction.

This distinct characteristic differentiates conduction from other heat transfer methods, such as convection, which involves the movement of fluids, and radiation, which involves heat transfer through electromagnetic waves without requiring direct contact.