Thermal Convection
The transfer of heat energy between a solid surface and an adjacent moving fluid, driven by bulk fluid motion.
Governing formula
q = h A (T_surface - T_fluid) (Newton's Law of Cooling)
SI unit
W (h in W/(m²·K))
In depth
Can be natural (driven by buoyancy density differences) or forced (driven by fans, pumps, or wind).
Examples in the real world
Warm air rising above a room heater creating convective circulation currents throughout the room.