What is the process called that involves direct transfer of heat from one substance to another?

The process of direct transfer of heat from one substance to another is known as conduction. This occurs when two objects at different temperatures come into contact with each other, allowing heat to flow from the hotter object to the cooler one until thermal equilibrium is reached. Conduction is most effective in solids, particularly metals, where particles are closely packed together and can efficiently transfer kinetic energy through collisions.

For instance, if you place a metal spoon in a hot cup of coffee, the heat from the coffee is conducted through the spoon, warming it in the process. This mechanism is key in various applications, including cooking and heating systems, as understanding conduction helps in designing efficient thermal management systems.