* Radiation: Radiation is the transfer of energy through electromagnetic waves. The Sun emits a wide spectrum of radiation, including visible light, infrared radiation (heat), and ultraviolet radiation. This energy travels through space, reaching Earth and warming its surface.
* Conduction: Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact between molecules. Conduction plays a role in how the Earth's surface warms up once it receives radiation from the Sun, but it's not the primary way the Sun's energy reaches us.
In summary: While conduction is important for heat transfer on Earth, the Sun's energy reaches us primarily through radiation.
