Which one among the following statements about thermal conductivity is correct?

Question

Which one among the following statements about thermal conductivity is correct?

1. A. Steel Wood Water
2. B. Steel Water Wood (Correct answer)
3. C. Water Wood Steel
4. D. Water Steel Wood

Correct Answer

Option B — Steel Water Wood

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Steel > Water > Wood.

Key Points

• Thermal conductivity order is Steel > Water > Wood.
• Metals like steel have high thermal conductivity due to free electrons that transfer heat rapidly.
• Water has moderate conductivity.
• Wood is a poor conductor (insulator) due to air pockets in its cellular structure.
• This is why we use wooden handles on utensils and metal pans for cooking.