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A. True
B. False
When we talk about how heat moves from one place to another, it’s important to understand the concept of thermal conductivity. This means how well a material allows heat to pass through it. Materials that allow heat to pass through them easily are called good conductors of heat, like metals. Those that do not allow heat to pass through easily are called poor conductors or insulators, like wood, plastic, and air.
Why is Air a Poor Conductor of Heat?
Air is actually a very poor conductor of heat. This means that it does not transfer heat quickly from one place to another. The molecules in air are spread far apart, so they don’t collide with each other often. Since heat transfer in conduction happens when molecules pass their energy by bumping into each other, this process happens very slowly in air.
That’s why materials that trap air are often used as insulators. For example, woollen clothes, thermos flasks, and even double-pane windows work effectively because they trap air and slow down the transfer of heat. Similarly, animals like polar bears and birds have thick fur or feathers that trap air to keep them warm.
Common Misunderstanding
Sometimes people think that air is a good conductor because we feel warm air on a hot day or cold air from an air conditioner. But that’s not due to conduction; it’s mainly due to convection, where heat moves with the flow of air. So, while air can carry heat when it moves (convection), it does not transfer heat well when it is still (conduction).
In conclusion, the statement “Air is a good conductor of heat” is false. Air is actually a poor conductor and is used in many ways to prevent heat loss. Understanding this helps us see why insulation is important in our daily lives.
Common Doubts of Physics
