Thermal conduction

Then let us inquire whether a change in the number and intensity of storms would cause any change in the other factor, that is, in the loss of heat by conduction and radiation.

The rate at which heat is conducted away from any part of the earth's surface depends largely on the movement of the air.

Since conduction takes place only between surfaces having a difference of temperature, and since stagnant air soon assumes approximately the temperature of the surface against which it lies, Conduction in still air almost ceases except as surrounding surfaces change their temperature.

When the air is in motion the conduction of heat increases under ordinary daytime conditions.

This is because the new air thus brought into contact with the earth's surface almost always has a lower temperature than the air which has long been in contact with the surface.