Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of conduction?

Conduction is a process characterized by the transfer of heat through direct contact between materials, typically occurring within solids. In conduction, heat is transferred as particles collide and interact directly with one another, which is why solids are the primary materials involved in this type of heat transfer.

The involvement of liquids is not a characteristic of conduction because liquids primarily conduct heat through a different mechanism known as convection, where fluid movement helps distribute heat. In liquids, as the temperature increases, the less dense warmer regions rise while the cooler, denser regions sink, aiding in heat distribution rather than relying solely on direct contact as in conduction.

Therefore, the option identifying liquids as a characteristic of conduction is correct in the sense that conduction does not typically involve liquids, making it the correct answer to the question.