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Learning objective

Explain experiments that illustrate the characteristics of effective thermal conductors and ineffective thermal conductors (thermal insulators).

Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.

Exam focus

  • Read the explanation.
  • Check key terms.
  • Practise with linked questions.
Cambridge IGCSE PhysicsThermal physicsCore contentPractical objective

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Quick explanation

Explain experiments that illustrate the characteristics of effective thermal conductors and ineffective thermal conductors (thermal insulators)

  • This point belongs to Conduction, especially Conduction outcomes.
  • You need to be able to explain experiments that illustrate the characteristics of effective thermal conductors and ineffective thermal conductors (thermal insulators).
  • The key ideas to know are Describe, Identify, and Show.
  • Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

DescribeIdentifyShow

Why it matters

This objective helps connect Conduction outcomes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Conduction.

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Flashcards10 linked cards

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Practice Questions7 linked questions

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Paper 6 structured question: Conduction

Paper 6Alternative to PracticalPractical1 marks

Method

Experiment to Test Thermal Conductivity

In this experiment, different materials are heated and their temperature changes are recorded over time.

MaterialInitial Temperature (°C)Final Temperature (°C)Time Taken (s)
Copper208010
Wood203060
Plastic202590
  1. a

    State the independent variable in this experiment.

    Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.

    [1]
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