Which process describes how heat is transferred through direct contact between solids?

The process that describes heat transfer through direct contact between solids is 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. The transfer of heat happens at the molecular level, where molecules in the hotter object vibrate more vigorously and transfer some of their energy to adjacent, less energetic molecules in the cooler object.

Conduction is most evident in materials that are good conductors of heat, such as metals. When you touch a hot metal surface, for instance, heat is transferred from the metal to your skin through conduction, often resulting in a burning sensation. This process is central to many everyday experiences and industrial applications, highlighting the importance of understanding how heat moves through solid materials.

In contrast, radiation involves heat transfer through electromagnetic waves and doesn't require direct contact, while convection relates to heat transfer in fluids (liquids and gases) due to the movement of the fluid itself. Evaporation involves the conversion of liquid to vapor and is a different physical process altogether.