What is the definition of convection in relation to fire?

Convection in relation to fire is defined as heat transfer through a fluid's movement. This occurs when warmer, less dense areas of a fluid—such as air or water—rise, while cooler, denser areas sink. This movement creates a circulation pattern that distributes heat throughout the fluid. In the context of fire, convection plays a critical role in the way heat spreads, influencing how flames and smoke move through an environment.

For example, during a fire, hot gases rise, and cooler air is drawn in, facilitating the transfer of heat and contributing to the fire's spread. This process is essential to understand for fire safety, as it affects how heat and smoke migrate and can inform strategies for fire detection, suppression, and evacuation. Understanding convection helps break down how fire behaves in different environments, which is crucial for effective fire response and mitigation strategies.