Thermal conductivity
Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity (IPA: /ˈθɜːrməl kənˌdʌktɪvɪti/) is a property of a material that refers to its ability to conduct heat. It is denoted by the symbol k or λ.
Etymology
The term "thermal conductivity" is derived from the Greek words "therme" meaning heat and "conducere" meaning to lead or bring together.
Definition
Thermal conductivity is defined as the rate at which heat passes through a specified material, expressed in terms of the amount of heat that flows per unit time through a unit area with a temperature gradient of one degree per unit distance (k = W/m·K) when the heat transfer is steady.
Factors Affecting Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity is affected by several factors such as the temperature, density, and moisture content of the material. Other factors include the pressure and thermal expansion of the material.
Related Terms
- Thermal resistance: The ability of a material to resist the flow of heat.
- Thermal insulator: A material that reduces or prevents the transfer of heat.
- Thermal diffusivity: A measure of how quickly a material can absorb heat from its surroundings.
- Heat transfer: The process of heat moving from a warmer object to a cooler one.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thermal conductivity
- Wikipedia's article - Thermal conductivity
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