Encyclopedia > Thermal diffusivity

Article Content

Thermal diffusivity

In heat transfer analysis, thermal diffusivity is the ratio of thermal conductivity to heat capacity.

<math>\alpha = {k \over {\rho c_p}}</math>

where k is thermal conductivity and ρc_p is heat capacity. Units are m²/s.

Substances with high α will rapidly adjust their temperature to that of surroundings, because they conduct heat quickly in comparison to their thermal 'bulk'.

Featured Article

North Haven, New York

... 100 females there are 86.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there are 82.7 males. The median income for a household in the village is $74,583, and th ...