Thermal conductivity is defined as the heat flow per unit timea)When t...
Given two surfaces on either side of the material with a temperature difference between them, the thermal conductivity is the heat energy transferred per unit time and per unit surface area, divided by the temperature difference. It is measured in watts per degree Kelvin.
View all questions of this test
Thermal conductivity is defined as the heat flow per unit timea)When t...
Thermal Conductivity and its Definition
Thermal conductivity is a property of a material that describes its ability to conduct heat. It is defined as the heat flow per unit time across a unit area where the temperature gradient is unity. In other words, it measures how well a material can transfer heat through it.
Explanation of the Correct Answer
The correct answer is option 'D' - across a unit area where the temperature gradient is unity. Let's break down the components of this definition to understand why it is the correct answer.
Unit Area
Thermal conductivity is a property that describes the heat flow per unit area. This means that the heat transfer is considered across a specific area of the material. By considering a unit area, we can compare the thermal conductivity of different materials on an equal basis.
Temperature Gradient
The temperature gradient refers to the change in temperature over a certain distance. It represents how the temperature changes as we move through the material. The gradient is calculated by dividing the temperature difference by the distance. In this case, the temperature gradient is unity, which means that the temperature change is constant over a specific distance.
Heat Flow
Heat flow refers to the transfer of thermal energy from a region of higher temperature to a region of lower temperature. It is measured in terms of the amount of heat transferred per unit time. In the definition of thermal conductivity, we consider the heat flow per unit time.
Importance of the Correct Answer
Option 'D' is the correct answer because it provides a comprehensive definition of thermal conductivity. By considering a unit area with a unity temperature gradient, we can compare the thermal conductivity of different materials accurately. This definition allows us to understand how efficiently a material can transfer heat and is crucial in various fields, including engineering, physics, and materials science.
Conclusion
Thermal conductivity is the measure of a material's ability to conduct heat. It is defined as the heat flow per unit time across a unit area where the temperature gradient is unity. This definition allows for accurate comparison of different materials and provides valuable information in various scientific and engineering applications.