Heat is produced by the vibration and movement of molecules, with faster movement producing more heat. There are two main temperature scales, Celsius and Fahrenheit. Cooking food serves several purposes, including destroying pathogens and toxins, aiding digestion, and enhancing flavor and appearance. Heat is transferred to food through conduction, convection, or radiation. Conduction involves direct contact, convection uses air or water currents, and radiation uses electromagnetic waves. Cooking methods are also categorized by how heat is applied - moist methods use liquid, dry methods apply heat directly, frying uses fats and oils, and microwaves use electromagnetic waves.