Thermal conductivity (k) |
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Heat is a form of energy - specifically - the average kinetic energy of atoms in random motion (gases), or vibrational motion (solids). Energy is transferred to nearby atoms by interactions between atoms. Heat can be said to 'flow' only in this sense. The amount of heat flow through a uniform body, of uniform cross section, depends on the cross sectional area A, the length Dx, the thermal conductivity k, and the temperature difference between the ends, DT. These observations are expressed as a single equation for heat flow in Joules per second ... verified by experiment.  The coefficient k , has MKS units of ...  Tables of thermal conductivity, k, are published in a variety of units. |