What is the method of heat transfer that occurs through direct contact?

The method of heat transfer that occurs through direct contact is conduction. This process involves the transfer of thermal energy through collisions between particles in a substance. When two objects at different temperatures come into direct contact, the faster-moving particles of the hotter object collide with the slower-moving particles of the cooler object, transferring kinetic energy and thereby increasing the temperature of the cooler object.

In terms of real-world applications, conduction is evident when a metal spoon is placed in a hot cup of coffee—the heat from the coffee is transferred through the spoon, making the handle warm to the touch. This contrasts with convection, which involves the movement of fluids; radiation, which transfers heat through electromagnetic waves; and induction, which involves generating electric currents through magnetic fields, none of which involve direct contact.