Physics Demonstrations
Department of Physics and Astronomy
Physics Demonstrations

Thermal Conductivity Comparison

Identifier: T: H - 014

3 ring stands with rods of different metals. The rods have balls attached by wax. All three rods converge over a bunsen burner          Alternate apparatus - 4 rods attached around a ring.

Concept Overview:

  1. Comparison of thermal conductivities of different metals (Copper, Iron and Steel)
  2. Visualization of the thermal diffusivity of the 3 different rods

Lecturer Procedure

Step(s) to FollowExpected Result
Turn on the Bunsen burnerBalls will fall from the metals at different rates due to the differences in both thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity
Alternate Apparatus (Photo on the Right)
  1. Turn on Bunsen burner
  2. Hold round center of apparatus over the flame
The ball on each prong will fall off at a different amount of time, depending on its material

The alternate apparatus takes more time; it is recommended that the set-up indicated in the photo on the left be used.

Tutorial: Set-up Instructions for T: H - 14

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