Question detail
In an experiment investigating thermal insulation, if material A has a thermal conductivity of 0.04 W/m·K and material B has a thermal conductivity of 0.1 W/m·K, which material is a better insulator and why?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Conservation and dissipation of energy
Question
In an experiment investigating thermal insulation, if material A has a thermal conductivity of 0.04 W/m·K and material B has a thermal conductivity of 0.1 W/m·K, which material is a better insulator and why?
Answer
Material A is a better insulator because it has a lower thermal conductivity value, meaning it will transfer heat more slowly compared to material B.
Explanation
This question assesses the ability to interpret and compare thermal conductivity values, directly relating to the learning objective on thermal conductivity in insulation investigations.
Common mistake
Misinterpreting ‘wasted energy’ as any energy loss
Students often think that any energy loss in a system, such as heat lost to the surroundings, is ‘wasted energy’, even when it is a useful form of energy transfer (e.g., heat used to warm a room).
Explain that ‘wasted energy’ refers specifically to energy transferred in a way that does not contribute to the intended useful work of the system, such as frictional heat in a machine or heat lost through poor insulation when the goal is to maintain temperature. Clarify that useful energy is that which performs the desired function, while wasted energy is the portion that does not.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.