What is the process called when heat is conveyed by rays traveling in a straight line?

The process of heat being conveyed by rays traveling in a straight line is known as radiation. This mode of heat transfer involves the emission of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves, which can travel through a vacuum or a medium without requiring direct contact between objects.

Radiation is distinct from conduction and convection. Conduction refers to heat transfer through direct contact between materials, relying on the interaction of particles within a solid. Convection involves the movement of heat through fluids (like liquids and gases) where warmer parts of the fluid rise and cooler parts sink, creating a circulation pattern. Insulation, on the other hand, refers to materials or methods used to reduce heat transfer between different environments, rather than a method of heat transfer itself.

Understanding these concepts of heat transfer is essential, especially in applications like HVAC systems and building design, where maintaining temperature control is critical.