Physics – 2.3.1 Conduction | e-Consult

(a) The metal is the best thermal conductor and the wood is the poorest thermal conductor (the best thermal insulator). Explanation: In a good thermal conductor (like metal), the particles (atoms and electrons) are arranged in a way that allows heat energy to be transferred efficiently through vibrations and collisions. This is due to the free electrons in metals. In a poor thermal conductor (like wood), the particles are arranged in a more disordered way, and there are fewer free electrons to facilitate heat transfer. This means heat energy is not transferred as efficiently.

(b) One improvement would be to ensure the blocks are of the same thickness and have the same cross-sectional area. This would eliminate any variations in heat transfer due to differences in size and shape. Also, ensuring the hot plate is at the same distance from the surface of each block would improve the consistency of the heat input.