Conduction • Convection • Radiation — Simulate • Explore • Practice • Quiz
Heat transfer is the movement of thermal energy from a region of higher temperature to a region of lower temperature. The three fundamental modes of heat transfer are conduction (through solid materials), convection (via fluid motion), and radiation (through electromagnetic waves). Understanding these mechanisms is essential for designing thermal systems, insulation, heat exchangers, furnaces, and electronic cooling.
Conduction is the transfer of heat through a solid or between solids in direct contact. It is governed by Fourier’s Law: Q = kA(T1−T2)/L, where k is the thermal conductivity of the material (W/m·K), A is the cross-sectional area, L is the thickness, and (T1−T2) is the temperature difference. Metals like copper (k ≈ 385 W/m·K) conduct heat very well, while brick (k ≈ 0.7 W/m·K) is a poor conductor.
Convection is the transfer of heat between a solid surface and a moving fluid (liquid or gas). Newton’s Law of Cooling states: Q = hA(Ts−T∞), where h is the convective heat transfer coefficient (W/m²·K), A is the surface area, Ts is the surface temperature, and T∞ is the bulk fluid temperature. Natural convection (driven by buoyancy) typically has h = 5–25 W/m²K, while forced convection (driven by fans or pumps) can reach h = 25–500 W/m²K.
Thermal radiation is energy emitted by all bodies above absolute zero. The net radiative heat transfer between two surfaces is: Q = εσA(T14−T24), where ε is the emissivity (0–1), σ = 5.67×10−8 W/(m²·K4) is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant, and temperatures must be in Kelvin. A blackbody has ε = 1 (perfect emitter), while polished metals may have ε < 0.1.
In Simulate mode, select a heat transfer mode (Conduction, Convection, or Radiation), then adjust material properties and temperatures using sliders. The canvas shows an animated heat flow visualisation with temperature gradients. Readouts display heat transfer rate, thermal resistance, temperature gradient, and heat flux in real time. Use presets for common scenarios. Switch to Explore mode to study concepts across all three heat transfer modes. Practice mode generates randomised heat transfer problems, and Quiz mode tests your knowledge with 5 randomised questions.
This simulator is designed for mechanical engineering students, thermal analysis trainees, HVAC engineers, energy systems students, and instructors teaching heat transfer, thermodynamics, and thermal design. It provides visual, hands-on understanding of heat transfer mechanisms without requiring laboratory equipment.