All three types of heat transfer—conduction, convection, and radiation—play a role in cooking. Here's how each one applies:
A. Conduction: This is the transfer of heat through direct contact. When you cook food in a pan, the heat from the burner is transferred to the pan and then to the food. For example, when you fry an egg in a skillet, heat moves from the hot surface of the skillet (conducting the heat) directly to the egg.
B. Convection: This involves the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). In cooking, convection occurs when hot air or liquid moves around the food. For example, when baking in an oven, hot air circulates around the food, cooking it evenly. Similarly, in boiling water, water currents distribute heat throughout.
C. Radiation: This method involves the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves. An example of radiation in cooking is when you use a microwave or grill. In these methods, heat is emitted by the microwave or from the grill and absorbed by the food without needing direct contact.
In summary, cooking typically involves a combination of all three heat transfer methods: conduction, convection, and radiation.