Physics – 2.3.1 Conduction | e-Consult

Thermal conductivity is a measure of a material's ability to conduct heat. Diamond and paraffin wax are both solids, but they exhibit significantly different thermal conductivities. This difference can be explained by their particle arrangement and intermolecular forces.

Diamond consists of a rigid, three-dimensional network of carbon atoms, each covalently bonded to four other carbon atoms. Covalent bonds are very strong and provide a continuous, tightly linked structure. This allows for very efficient transfer of vibrational energy (heat) through the lattice. When one part of the diamond is heated, the vibrations are readily transmitted to adjacent atoms throughout the entire crystal structure.

Paraffin wax, on the other hand, is composed of long chains of hydrocarbons held together by weaker van der Waals forces (intermolecular forces). These forces are much weaker than covalent bonds. The arrangement of the molecules is also less ordered than in diamond. Consequently, the transfer of vibrational energy (heat) is less efficient. The weaker intermolecular forces and less rigid structure mean that vibrations are not easily transmitted throughout the material.

In summary, the strong, continuous network of covalent bonds in diamond facilitates efficient heat transfer, resulting in high thermal conductivity. The weaker intermolecular forces and less ordered structure in paraffin wax impede heat transfer, leading to low thermal conductivity.