What is thermal conductivity?

Thermal conductivity is the ability of a material to transfer heat from a hot object to a cold object.

Why are metals generally good conductors of heat?

Metals have delocalized electrons that can easily transfer heat energy.

Non-metals conduct heat through phonons, which are waves in the lattice structure of the material.

Metal has a higher thermal conductivity than wood. It transfers heat away from your hand more quickly, making it feel colder.

Grade 10th Grade · Physics · 40 min· Igcse Physics

I can describe how thermal energy transfers through different materials by conduction.

Bozeman Science · 5:05

Thermal Conductivity

3 key concepts

1
Thermal conductivity is a material's ability to transfer heat from a hot object to a cold object.
2
Metals are good conductors of heat because they share their electrons in a delocalized cloud, while non-metals transfer heat using phonons.
3
Thermal conductivity is measured in watts per meter Kelvin, and a vacuum has zero thermal conductivity.

7 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Quick comprehension check

“Explain how thermal energy is transferred differently through a metal spoon versus a wooden spoon when both are placed in a hot bowl of soup.”

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