what is the difference between conduction and convection?

Whilst both are transfers of heat energy- conduction happens best in solids and convection best in fluids. Conduction occurs as atoms gain energy from the heat source and start to vibrate. In conduction particles that gain heat energy rise. I like to think of it like hot air balloons that rise when they get hotter, and less dense. In convection the hot particles which have risen get replaced by cooler particles and the cycle continues.