Question

Which form of energy transfer occurs most readily in a vacuum? 1\. Convection 2\. Conduction 3\. Radiation 4\. Two of the above

Short answer

Radiation is the form of energy transfer that occurs most readily in a vacuum, as it does not require a medium (like a fluid or solid substance) to transfer heat. Convection and conduction cannot occur in a vacuum since they rely on particles or substances for heat transfer. The answer is 3. Radiation.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Convection

Convection is the transfer of heat within a fluid (gas or liquid) due to the movement of the fluid itself. In a vacuum, there are no particles to act as a fluid medium that can transfer heat through convection. Therefore, convection cannot occur in a vacuum.

Understanding Conduction

Conduction is the transfer of heat between substances in direct contact with each other due to the movement of molecules and atoms within the substances. In a vacuum, there are no particles or substances in direct contact with each other for heat transfer to occur through conduction. Therefore, conduction cannot occur in a vacuum.

Understanding Radiation

Radiation is the transfer of energy as electromagnetic waves through space. It does not require a medium (like a fluid or solid substance) to transfer heat. Radiation can happen in a vacuum since it does not rely on particles or substances to transfer energy. Examples of radiative energy transfer can be observed from the sun's energy reaching the Earth through the vacuum of space.

Conclusion

Comparing the three forms of energy transfer, we can conclude that radiation occurs most readily in a vacuum, as convection and conduction require a medium to transfer energy, whereas radiation does not. Therefore, the answer is: 3. Radiation