Confirming Convection: Heat Escape Through Unlidded Containers

[gem0688]

Hi,

Just a quick question, I just want to check that i am on the right lines!

When heat escapes through the top of a container which does not have a lid, is that due to convection? i/e hot air is less dense than cold air, so rises.

Cheers

Gemma

 

[berkeman]

Out of conduction, convection and radiation, you are correct that convection would account for the majority of the heat loss. There will be a little due to IR radiation, but that won't account for much unless the interior of the container is red hot.

 

[gem0688]

Cheers,

just wanted 2 make sure!

Gemma