Which method of heat transfer involves the movement of fluid or air?

Convection is the method of heat transfer that involves the movement of fluid or air. In this process, heat is transferred through the bulk movement of molecules in a fluid (liquid or gas). When a fluid is heated, it becomes less dense and rises, while cooler fluid moves in to take its place, creating a circulation pattern. This movement helps distribute heat more evenly throughout a space, making convection an essential concept in HVAC systems for heating and cooling air effectively.

Radiative heat transfer, in contrast, involves the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves, without the need for a medium like air or fluid. Conduction refers to the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials, without any movement of the materials themselves. Insulation is a material or method used to reduce heat transfer but does not directly relate to the movement of fluid or air. Understanding convection is critical for effectively designing and operating HVAC systems, as it plays a significant role in indoor climate control.