Heat transfer is the movement of thermal energy from one object or area to another. Thermal energy always moves from warmer objects to cooler objects. There are three main types of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation.

Conduction: Heat transfers through direct contact between two objects. When objects touch, thermal energy moves from the warmer object to the cooler one.

Convection: Heat transfers through the movement of a fluid, such as air or liquid. As a fluid is heated, it becomes less dense and rises, while cooler, denser fluid sinks, creating a cycle that spreads heat.

Radiation: Heat transfer through electromagnetic waves. Radiation does not require direct contact or a medium. Heat from the Sun or from heating elements can travel through empty space.

In this lab, you will make s’mores using an oven to observe how thermal energy is transferred. All three types of heat transfer are present during this process. By observing how the s’more heats and changes, you will identify where and how conduction, convection, and radiation occur in a real-world example.