The phenomenon of warm water rising to the surface of the ocean and cooler water sinking is an example of convection.
Convection is the process of heat transfer in fluids (liquids and gases) where warmer, less dense fluid rises, while cooler, denser fluid sinks. This movement creates a convection current. In the ocean, warm water near the surface is heated by the sun, and as it warms up, it becomes less dense and rises. Conversely, cooler water is denser and sinks to the depths. This process helps to distribute heat throughout the ocean.
Conduction refers to the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials, whereas radiation involves the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves. In the context of ocean water mixing, convection is the relevant process.