These mechanisms support our need to maintain a narrow range of body temperature for optimal function. In response to a rise in body temperature from an internal or external heat source, we increase both cutaneous blood flow and sweating. The direct transfer of heat energy to the environment occurs by radiation and conduction .
Radiative transfer occurs between the body surface and all other sources of radiant energy.
Conductive transfer occurs by direct contact between the body surface and other materials including air, water or ground. Both radiative and conductive heat transfer move heat energy between the body surface and some other material. Convection augments conductive heat transfer. Conduction occurs between two materials in direct contact. Conduction will stop when the two materials in contact reach thermal equilibrium.