Physics – 2.3.1 Conduction | e-Consult
2.3.1 Conduction (1 questions)
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Metals generally have a higher thermal conductivity than non-metals due to the presence of free electrons in their metallic bonding. These free electrons can easily transport thermal energy throughout the material. When one end of a metal is heated, the free electrons gain kinetic energy and move rapidly, colliding with other electrons and atoms, thereby transferring the thermal energy.
Non-metals, on the other hand, have weaker intermolecular forces and a lack of free electrons. Thermal energy is transferred through lattice vibrations (phonons), which are less efficient at carrying energy than the movement of free electrons.
Examples:
- Copper is an excellent thermal conductor used in cookware and heat sinks.
- Iron is a reasonable thermal conductor, but less effective than copper.
- Wood is a poor thermal conductor, used as an insulator.
- Plastic is also a poor thermal conductor, commonly used for insulation.