Conduction

Activity 1:  Read the following.

    Another method of heat transfer is conduction.   In the process of conduction, heat moves through a substance or from one substance to another by the direct contact of molecules.  Fast moving molecules collide with slow moving molecules.  This causes the slow moving molecules to move faster. Now, these molecules collide with other slow moving molecules causing them to move faster.    This process is repeated over and over.  In this way heat energy is transfered from molecule to molecule throughout a substance.

      Since all matter is made of molecules, conduction can take place in solids, liquids and gases.

     Some substances transfer heat better than others.  These substances are good conductors of heat.

Metals are good conductors of heat.  Silver is one of the best conductors of heat. Other good examples are iron, copper and aluminum.

     Some substances do not conduct heat easily.   These are called insulators.   Glass, wood and plastic are examples of insulators.  Air is also a good insulator.

Activity 2:  Answer the following questions.

1._____________is heat transfer by direct contact of molecules.

2.  Faster moving molecules ___________ with slower moving molecules, causing the slower moving molecules to _______  ______ and ___________ with other slow moving molecules.

3.  Conduction can take place in ______,______,and _______.

4.  Substances that are able to transfer heat are known as______

5.  _____,______,______and _____are examples of good heat conductors.

6.  In general ________ are good heat conductors.

7.  _____ do not conduct heat easily.   ____,____and _____ are good examples. 

8.  Explain why handles of pots and pans should be made of wood or plastic instead of iron or aluminum.____________________________________.

9.  In very cold weather , why is it best to dress in layers of clothing to keep warm?____________________________________________________.

For information about another method of heat transfer go to Radiation.