4.4.3

Molecular Conduction

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How Conduction Happens

There are two mechanisms for conduction in a solid:

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Lattice vibrations

  • If one part of a solid is heated, the particles in that part gain energy and vibrate more.
  • These vibrations then transfer heat energy to neighbouring particles which also vibrate more.
  • The closer particles are together (in a more dense solid), the better the solid will conduct heat energy.
Illustrative background for Electron transferIllustrative background for Electron transfer ?? "content

Electron transfer

  • Metal lattices contain free (delocalised) electrons that can move anywhere in the lattice.
  • These electrons gain heat energy in the hot part of the object and carry it to other parts of the lattice.
  • Solids with more free electrons are better thermal conductors.

Jump to other topics

1Forces & Motion

1.1Basics of Motion

1.2Forces

1.3Effects of Forces

1.4Stopping Distance

1.5Forces & Elasticity

2Electricity

3Waves

4Energy Resources & Energy Transfers

5Solids, Liquids & Gases

6Magnetism & Electromagnetism

7Radioactivity & Particles

8Astrophysics

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