What do we call the transfer of heat energy from one object to another?

The transfer of heat energy from one object to another is referred to as conduction. This process occurs when two objects at different temperatures are in direct contact with each other, allowing heat to flow from the hotter object to the cooler one until thermal equilibrium is reached. Conduction is commonly experienced when you touch a hot stove; heat from the stove is conducted to your hand, which can lead to burns.

Convection, on the other hand, involves the transfer of heat energy through fluids (liquids and gases) caused by the movement of the fluid itself. This occurs, for example, when warm air rises and cool air takes its place, creating a current. Induction refers to the process of generating electric current in a conductor by a changing magnetic field, which is unrelated to direct heat transfer between objects. Conversion generally refers to changing from one form of energy to another but does not specifically describe the direct transfer of heat energy.