Electrical and Heat Conductivity
Most recent answer: 11/12/2009
Q:
I understand that copper is the better conductor of electricity because it has less resistance, but is nichrome a better conductor of heat since it has more resistance? What are common uses for copper and nichrome in our everyday lives?
- Kristy (age 29)
Harrodsburg, KY
- Kristy (age 29)
Harrodsburg, KY
A:
Both heat and electricity in metals are largely conducted by electrons roaming around. So, a high resistance metal will conduct heat less well than a low resistance metal. Nichrome has a high resistivity. This effect is described by the Wiedemann–Franz law.
See:
LeeH
See:
LeeH
(published on 11/12/2009)