In the context of heat transfer, does convection always transfer heat more quickly than conduction in all materials and situations?

• A. Neither convection nor conduction can transfer heat; only radiation is effective.
• B. No, the rate of heat transfer by $\mathrm{convection}$ and $\mathrm{conduction}$ depends on the specific material properties and conditions; $\mathrm{conduction}$ can be faster in some cases.
• C. $\mathrm{Convection}$ and $\mathrm{conduction}$ always transfer heat at the same rate in any material.
• D. Yes, $\mathrm{convection}$ always transfers heat more quickly than $\mathrm{conduction}$ regardless of the material or situation.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions: Conduction is heat transfer through direct molecular collisions within a material, while convection involves heat transfer through the movement of fluid (liquid or gas) carrying energy from one place to another.
2. Recognize that the rate of heat transfer by conduction depends on the material's thermal conductivity, temperature gradient, and thickness, described by Fourier's law: \(q = -k A \frac{dT}{dx}\), where \(q\) is heat transfer rate, \(k\) is thermal conductivity, \(A\) is area, and \(\frac{dT}{dx}\) is temperature gradient.
3. Understand that convection heat transfer depends on the convective heat transfer coefficient \(h\), surface area \(A\), and temperature difference between the surface and fluid, given by Newton's law of cooling: \(q = h A (T_{surface} - T_{fluid})\).
4. Note that the convective heat transfer coefficient \(h\) varies widely depending on fluid properties, flow conditions (laminar or turbulent), and geometry, so convection can be either slower or faster than conduction depending on these factors.
5. Conclude that neither convection nor conduction universally transfers heat faster; the dominant mode depends on the specific material properties and environmental conditions.