Gases generally have low thermal conductivity , and pure metals have high thermal conductivity . For example, under standard conditions the thermal conductivity of copper is over 10 000 times that of air. In this article, we will delve into the basics of thermal conductivity , including its definition, units of measurement, factors affecting it, and applications in different fields, derivation of the thermal conductivity formula in a detailed manner. Thermal conductivity can be defined as the ability of a material to transfer heat energy from a region at a higher temperature to a region at a lower temperature. The two words “ Thermal ” means heat, and “ Conductivity ” means to conduct or convey. The SI unit of the compound is watts per meter kelvin (W/ (m·K)). Suppose you are burning a potato in a campfire and accidentally touch the potato to the flame, is a real-life example of thermal conductivity . Find thermal conductivity values for various solids, liquids and gases at different temperatures. Compare and contrast the thermal conductivity of metals, building materials, insulation, and more.
