Why are metals thermally conductive

A metal is unique because unlike non-metallics which are viewed as highly organized lattices, valence electrons of metal atoms are not strongly held by the nucleus and are highly mobile. These mobile electrons transfer electric charge as well as heat across the metallic structure. This freedom of the valence electrons accounts for the high thermal conductivity in metals.

The same things that determine how well those electrons conduct heat also determine how well they conduct electricity. Mike W. Thanks, Rollins Mike and I run this site for our own enjoyment in the hope that we can contribute to a better understanding of science in general and physics in particular. An introduction to thermal physics. India: Pearson India Education Services. Materials Database — Thermal Properties. Aluminum Alloys Blaber, M. Thermal Conductivity. Titanium dioxide for Plastics.

Sandhana, L. What is Carbon Steel? A: Mohamed, M. Cooking Lady [Illustration]. B: Mohamed, M. Chef Cooking [Illustration]. Image 2: Wikipedia. Thermometer [Illustration]. Latest Trending Press Release. October 29, Effective Winter Jacket Insulation October 8, What is Coefficient of Thermal Expansion? How to measure it? October 30, Thermal Conductivity of Steel May 4, Physics explanation of Thermal Conductivity of Metals May 22, That is why copper is used in the bottoms of high-quality cookware because the metal rapidly conducts the heat and spreads it evenly across its surface.

It may take a little longer to heat up your food, but your wallet will thank you for it! We are metal experts and have been providing quality customer service and products since At Metal Supermarkets, we supply a wide range of metals for a variety of applications. Our stock includes: mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, tool steel, alloy steel, brass, bronze and copper.

We stock a wide range of shapes including: bars, tubes, sheets, plates and more. And we can cut metal to your exact specifications. See all Blog Posts. Here are some important applications which require metals that conduct heat well: Heat Exchangers Heat Sinks Cookware Heat Exchangers A heat exchanger is a common application where good thermal conductivity is important.

Heat exchangers are commonly used in the following situations: Industrial Facilities Heat exchangers in industrial facilities include fossil and nuclear power plants, chemical plants, desalination plants and marine services. Solar Thermal Water Systems Solar water heaters are a cost-effective way to heat water in which a copper tube is used to transfer the solar thermal energy to the water. Gas Water Heaters Gas water heat exchangers transfer the heat generated by gas fuels to water.

Forced Air Heating and Cooling Heat pumps using air have long been used for residential and commercial heating.