On the basis of a numerically solved heat diffusion equation, the structure of the thermal transient induced in an aluminum sample by an electron beam pulse is described in terms of slush zone formation, molten depth, liquid phase duration, and melt front history. The heat flow dynamics, as determined by monochromatic (electron energy ranging between 5 and 25 keV) and ultrashort (15 ns fwhm) pulses, is contrasted with the ruby laser induced one. Accessible absorbed energy intervals for sample surface melting are given as a function of electron energy; heating of the sample interior at values higher than those attained at the surface is shown to occur only at higher electron energies, for a given pulse duration. The general dependence of the present results on the pulse duration and the effects produced by polychromatic pulses are also discussed.