wiz-icon
MyQuestionIcon
MyQuestionIcon
1
You visited us 1 times! Enjoying our articles? Unlock Full Access!
Question

Define convection

Open in App
Solution

Convection is the circular motion that happens when warmer air or liquid — which has faster moving molecules, making it less dense — rises, while the cooler air or liquid drops down.

Convection is a major factor in weather. The sun heats the earth’s surface, then, when cooler air comes into contact with it, the air warms and rises, creating an upward current in the atmosphere. That current can result in wind, clouds, or other weather. Convection currents within the earth move layers of magma, and convection in the ocean creates currents.


flag
Suggest Corrections
thumbs-up
16
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
similar_icon
Related Videos
thumbnail
lock
Wind Currents
PHYSICS
Watch in App
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
CrossIcon