Which method of heat transfer involves physical contact?

Conduction heat is the method of heat transfer that occurs through direct physical contact between materials. In conduction, heat energy is transferred from the hot part of a material to the cold part through the vibrations and interactions of molecules in a solid or sometimes between solids in contact. For example, when you touch a hot pan, heat is transferred from the pan to your hand by conduction, which is why you feel warmth and may risk burning your skin.

In contrast, convection involves the movement of fluids (liquids or gases) where hot areas rise and cooler areas sink, creating a current. Radiant heat transfer involves energy transfer through electromagnetic waves, such as sunlight warming your skin, without any physical contact. The term "thermal heat" is not a standard classification of heat transfer methods and does not specifically define a mechanism. Thus, conduction is clearly distinguished as the method involving direct contact, making it the correct answer.