What is the term for the transfer of heat through and between solids?

The term that describes the transfer of heat through and between solids is conduction. This process occurs when heat energy moves from one molecule to another through direct contact. For instance, when one part of a metal rod is heated, the heat travels along the rod as adjacent molecules absorb the energy and pass it on to the next set of molecules, leading to a gradual increase in temperature throughout the solid object.

Conduction is particularly significant in materials that are good thermal conductors, like metals, which allow heat to flow efficiently. Understanding this process is essential in firefighting and safety, as it helps in assessing how heat can spread through materials in a fire situation, aiding in developing effective strategies for managing potential hazards and protecting lives.