Learning Forum

[Karthik Remella]

How can I compute the heat conduction in a solid body? What equation or formula should I use?

[prajput]

You can compute it using Fourier's law. It states that the rate of heat transfer through conduction is directly proportional to the thermal gradient (dT/dx). Mathematically,

q_x = - k * A * dT / dx (1D conduction)

where,

q_x - rate of heat transfer in x direction

k - thermal conductivity of the material

A - area normal to the direction of heat transfer

dT / dx - thermal gradient

The minus sign is necessary because heat is transferred in the direction of decreasing temperature.

[Karthik Remella]

Thanks @pankajhr , So what is the physical meaning of the thermal conductivity in the Fourier's conduction equation?

[prajput]

Thermal conductivity is a transport property which indicates the rate at which energy is transferred through conduction. Efficient conductors have a high thermal conductivity. Materials with poor thermal conductivity are referred to as insulators.

[Karthik Remella]

Thanks