heat-conductivity

heat-conductivity

A copper pot demonstrates high heat-conductivity on a stove.

Definition
  1. Noun (uncountable):
    • Property of conducting heat: "heat-conductivity" refers to the ability of a material or substance to transfer thermal energy through it. It is a physical property that measures how efficiently heat flows from a warmer region to a cooler region within the material.
Usage Examples
  • (The ability to transfer heat efficiently.)
  • (The material's poor ability to conduct heat.)
  • (The property of transferring heat in construction.)
Advanced Usage

  • "thermal conductivity" (synonym): "heat-conductivity" is often used interchangeably with "thermal conductivity" in scientific contexts.

    • The heat-conductivity of diamond is exceptionally high, exceeding that of copper. (The ability to transfer heat as measured in watts per meter-kelvin.)

  • "effective heat-conductivity": a term used when a material's heat transfer is influenced by factors like porosity or moisture.

    • The effective heat-conductivity of insulation foam decreases as its density increases. (The practical heat transfer property under specific conditions.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Heat-conductive (adj): capable of conducting heat.

    • This heat-conductive paste is used to improve contact between a computer chip and its cooler. (The material's ability to transfer heat.)

  • Conductivity (n): the general property of transmitting energy (heat, electricity, sound).

    • The electrical conductivity of silver is higher than its heat-conductivity. (The ability to transmit energy.)
Synonyms
  • Thermal conductivity: the scientific term for heat-conductivity.
  • Heat transfer coefficient: a related measure of how easily heat moves through a material, though it often includes factors like surface area and temperature difference.
Related Idioms

  • "to have good heat-conductivity": to be effective at transferring heat.

    • Copper pots are preferred because they have good heat-conductivity. (They efficiently spread heat while cooking.)

  • "poor heat-conductivity": to be ineffective at transferring heat.

    • Styrofoam has poor heat-conductivity, which is why it is used for insulation. (It resists heat flow.)