CK-12 Physical Science Concepts - For Middle School

http://www.ck12.org Chapter 5. Energy

FIGURE 5.37

Home insulation looks a little like cotton

candy. Like cotton candy, it is light and

fluffy and full of tiny holes that trap air.

Summary

• Materials that are good conductors of thermal energy are called thermal conductors. Metals are very good
  thermal conductors.


• Materials that are poor conductors of thermal energy are called thermal insulators. Gases such as air and
  materials such as plastic and wood are thermal insulators.

Vocabulary

• thermal conductor: Material that is a good conductor of thermal energy.


• thermal insulator: Material that is a poor conductor of thermal energy.

Explore More

Complete the worksheet at the following URL. http://www.bp.com/liveassets/bp_internet/bpes_new/bpes_new_u
k/STAGING/protected_assets/flash/ysi_full/downloads/KeepingCosy_Worksheet1.pdf

Review

1. What is a thermal conductor? Give an example.


2. Why do metals often feel cool to the touch?


3. Define thermal insulator. Describe one way thermal insulators are used.