What is the term for the transfer of heat that occurs when two items are in direct contact?

The term for the transfer of heat that occurs when two items are in direct contact is conduction. This process involves the direct transfer of thermal energy between molecules or atoms in a material that are touching each other. When one item is heated, the heat energy causes the molecules in that item to vibrate faster, and when they come into contact with another item, they transfer some of that energy, raising the temperature of the second item.

For example, when you place a metal spoon in a hot pot of soup, the heat from the soup is conducted through the spoon, making the spoon hot to the touch. This principle is crucial in cooking, as it affects how heat is distributed in different materials, impacting food preparation and cooking times.