What is the transfer of heat energy in the form of invisible waves called?

The transfer of heat energy in the form of invisible waves is referred to as radiation. This process does not require any medium (like air or water) to transfer heat and can occur in a vacuum, which is why the sun's warmth can reach the earth through the vacuum of space. In radiation, heat is emitted in the form of electromagnetic waves, which can travel through air and other mediums, but are also capable of moving through the vacuum of space.

Conduction, on the other hand, involves the direct transfer of heat between materials that are in contact with each other, while convection refers to the movement of heat through fluids (liquids or gases) due to the motion of the fluid itself. Convolution and shimmer do not pertain to the transfer of heat energy.

Understanding radiation is crucial in various fields, including firefighting, where recognizing how heat is transferred can impact firefighting strategies and safety measures. Knowing that heat can radiate from one object to another even when they are not touching can help firefighters assess fire spread and potential hazards effectively.