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What is thermal conductivity? Explain the effect of temperature on thermal conductivity on solids, liquids and gases?
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What is thermal conductivity? Explain the effect of temperature on the...
Thermal conductivity is defined as the ability of a material to conduct heat. It is a measure of how quickly heat energy can be transferred through a substance. The unit of thermal conductivity is watts per meter Kelvin (W/mK).

Effect of Temperature on Thermal Conductivity on Solids:

In solids, thermal conductivity generally increases with increasing temperature. This is because the thermal vibrations of the atoms or molecules in the solid increase with temperature, allowing for more efficient transfer of heat energy. However, there are cases where thermal conductivity decreases with increasing temperature. This is due to the presence of impurities or defects in the solid, which can act as barriers to heat transfer.

Effect of Temperature on Thermal Conductivity on Liquids:

In liquids, thermal conductivity generally decreases with increasing temperature. This is because the thermal vibrations of the molecules in the liquid increase with temperature, making it more difficult for heat energy to be transferred from one molecule to another. However, there are some liquids, such as water, where thermal conductivity increases with increasing temperature. This is due to the unique hydrogen bonding between water molecules, which allows for more efficient transfer of heat energy.

Effect of Temperature on Thermal Conductivity on Gases:

In gases, thermal conductivity generally increases with increasing temperature. This is because the thermal vibrations of the molecules in the gas increase with temperature, allowing for more efficient transfer of heat energy. However, there are cases where thermal conductivity decreases with increasing temperature. This is due to the presence of impurities or defects in the gas, which can act as barriers to heat transfer.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, thermal conductivity is an important property of materials that affects their ability to conduct heat. It is influenced by factors such as temperature, impurities, and defects. Understanding the relationship between temperature and thermal conductivity is important for designing and optimizing heat transfer systems in various applications.
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