Final answer:
The transfer of heat through matter due to molecular collisions when there is a temperature difference is termed as conduction. It occurs in stationary matter, as seen when a stove heats a pan through direct contact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The transmission of heat through matter from one molecule to adjoining molecules in the direction of decreasing temperature is termed as conduction. This process occurs when there is a difference in temperature between adjoining regions within a substance, causing heat to be directly transmitted through the substance. The subtle but crucial distinction here is that, in conduction, the matter is stationary on a macroscopic scale, and the heat transfer is due to atomic or molecular collisions. A common example of this is heat transfer between the electric burner of a stove and the bottom of a pan, where conduction is responsible for heating the pan.