Conduction of Heat (OCR GCSE Physics A, Combined (Gateway Science Suite)): Revision Notes

1.1.12 Conduction of Heat

Cooling of Buildings

Thermal Conductivity

Modern Houses

• Insulating Material:
• Builders pack the cavity with an insulating material that has very low thermal conductivity.
• This reduces the overall thermal conductivity of the wall by up to ten times, so much less thermal energy passes through the walls and escapes from the house.

Windows

• Single Glazed: High thermal conductivity
• Double Glazed: Low thermal conductivity

Roof

• Loft Insulation:
  • It has a low thermal conductivity
  • Reduces the amount of thermal energy passing through the roof

Reducing Thermal Energy Transfer from a House

• Construct the building using materials with low thermal conductivity.
• Build the house with thick walls as this also reduces the rate of thermal energy transfer.