What does the term "thermal conductivity" refer to?

Thermal conductivity refers to the ability of a material to conduct heat. It is a fundamental property that describes how efficiently a material can transfer thermal energy when subjected to a temperature difference. Materials with high thermal conductivity, such as metals, allow heat to flow quickly through them, making them effective in applications where heat transfer is desirable, such as in cooking utensils or heat exchangers. Conversely, materials with low thermal conductivity, such as insulators like rubber or glass wool, restrict heat flow, thereby helping to maintain temperature and providing insulation in various applications. Understanding thermal conductivity is crucial in fields like materials science, engineering, and construction, as it impacts the thermal performance of systems and structures.