What is thermal conductivity and why is it important?

What is thermal conductivity and why is it important?

Thermal conductivity is a measure of a material's ability to conduct heat. It's important because it affects energy efficiency in buildings and the performance of electronic devices.

Can you give me examples of materials with high and low thermal conductivity?

Sure! Metals like copper and aluminum have high thermal conductivity, while materials like wood and rubber have low thermal conductivity.

How does temperature affect thermal conductivity?

Temperature can significantly affect thermal conductivity. For most materials, thermal conductivity increases with temperature, but some materials may behave differently.

What applications rely on thermal conductivity?

Applications include insulation in buildings, heat exchangers in HVAC systems, and thermal management in electronics.

Are there any recent advancements in materials with improved thermal conductivity?

Yes, researchers are developing advanced materials like graphene and aerogels that offer exceptional thermal conductivity for various applications.