Introduction

In this experiment, we will be doing a comparison of thermal conductivity of different common metals (materials). Our hypothesis is that aluminum metal is the best conductor.

Aim

To compare the thermal conductivity of different metals.

Theory

As we know, metals are a conductor of heat. Therefore, the conductivity of a metal is the measure of its ability to conduct heat.

Requirements

1. Aluminum U-shaped Rod

2. Copper U-shaped Rod

3. Steel U-shaped Rod

4. Styrofoam Cups

5. Ice

6. Water at Room Temperature

7. Thermometer

8. Notebook

Procedure

Step 1: Bend the rod-shaped aluminum, copper, and steel rod into a U-Shape.

Step 2: Fill the two styrofoam cups, one with ice and another with water.

Step 3: Place one end of the rod into a styrofoam cup filled with ice and another styrofoam cup filled with water.

Step 4: Now, measure the decrease in temperature of water over a thirty-minute time interval.

Step 5: Record your observations.

Observation

1. We observed that pure metals such as copper and aluminum were the best conductor of heat. On the other hand, metal, an alloy such as brass and steel, was not a good conductor.

2. This experiment can be useful in buying cooking utensils as the vessels with pure metal bottoms conduct heat fastest.

3. This can also be used in building equipment where thermal conductivity is important.

Result

1. Copper was the best conductor of heat.

2. Copper rod conducted 3.7 degrees celsius out of room temperature.

3. Steel rod was the worst conductor as it conducted only 0.1 degrees Celsius.

Precaution

1. Wear gloves and glasses.

2. Water temperature should not be greater than room temperature.

3. Record your observations.

Conclusion

In this experiment, we successfully made a comparison of thermal conductivity of different common metals.

VIVA Questions With Answers

Q.1 What was the aim of your experiment?

ANS. We aimed to compare the conductivity of different metals.

Q.2 Which metal had more conductivity?

ANS. Copper was the best conductor of heat.

Q.3 What was the result of your experiment?

ANS. We found that pure metals such as copper and aluminum were the best conductor of heat. And the metal alloys were not as conductive as pure metal.

Q.4 Where can you use the result of this experiment?

ANS. The result can be useful in buying cooking utensils as the vessels with pure metal bottoms conduct heat fastest.

Saquib Siddiqui

Saquib Siddiqui is a Mechanical Engineer and a content creator. He has special interest in science experiments and teaches the same to school and college students. He is also a technical lead at RUDE LABS PVT. LTD.