Question

A student thinks that because the sun is made of gas, it transfers heat to Earth by convection. Which explains why this is an incorrect description of how the sun transfers heat to Earth? The space between the sun and Earth contains no matter. Convection cannot occur in gases. Earth can absorb heat only in the form of radiation. Electromagnetic waves do not carry energy.

Answer 1

Answer: The space between the sun and Earth contains no matter.

Explanation:

MODES OF HEAT TRANSFER

1. Conduction: This type of heat transfer happens when there is direct contact between the two objects.

2. Convection: This type of heat transfer happens when there is a movement of fluid (liquid or gas).

3. Radiation: This type of heat transfer happens when there is direct transfer of energy through space.

Thus convection can not take place between earth and sun as there is no liquid or gas present for movement of heat. The heat is transferred from sun to earth by radiation as it occurs through space.

Answer 2

Answer:

Option A, The space between the sun and Earth contains no matter

Explanation:

For convection to take place some medium is required for heat to travel.  

Basically convection takes place when heat flows from a region of high temperature to a region of low temperature which also requires matter motion. Since the space between earth and sun is a vacuum, therefore convection cannot take place.  

However, sun provides heat to earth through radiation as it does not require a medium for travelling.  

Hence, option A is correct