Thermal transfer refers to the process of heat moving from one object to another. This can occur through conduction, convection, or radiation. In conduction, heat travels through direct contact between materials, while convection involves the movement of fluids carrying heat. Radiation, on the other hand, allows heat to transfer through electromagnetic waves, such as sunlight warming the Earth. In many applications, such as in thermal management systems, understanding thermal transfer is crucial for maintaining optimal temperatures. For instance, heat sinks in electronics use conduction to dissipate heat away from sensitive components, ensuring they operate efficiently and do not overheat.