Explain how a convection current forms when a pan of water is being heated over a stove

The covection current forms because the base of the pan heats up as it gains energy from the stove via conduction, the pan then subsequently heats the water that is close to the bottom. As the water gains heat the convection current forms as the hot air at the bottom of the pan rises since the heat gain has lowered the density of the water. As the hot water rises the cooler water sinks to the bottom and is then heated itself, this water will then rise and again it will be replaced by cooler water, therefore the convection current has been formed. 

JH
Answered by Jack H. Physics tutor

17362 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A ball is dropped from a height of 20m. How long does it take for the ball to reach ground?


How do we know about the structure of the atom?


What is meant by 'resolving a vector into its components'?


Ultrasound is used to scan unborn babies but X-rays are not used to scan unborn babies.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning