What is the exchange of thermal energy between materials referred to as?

The exchange of thermal energy between materials is referred to as heat transfer. This term encompasses all the processes through which thermal energy moves from one material to another, which can occur through conduction, convection, and radiation. Heat transfer is a fundamental concept in understanding thermal dynamics in firefighting, as it aids in recognizing how heat moves during a fire event, influencing fire behavior, the spread of fire, and safety measures during firefighting operations.

In contrast, thermal equilibrium describes a state where two materials reach the same temperature and no longer exchange heat energy. Conduction refers specifically to the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials, while a temperature gradient refers to the difference in temperature between two points in a material, which drives heat transfer. Understanding these concepts is crucial for effective firefighting techniques and ensuring the safety of both firefighters and victims.