Calculating heat flux (Q) without thermal conductivity (K)

Thread starter gphsuvat
Start date Oct 21, 2015
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Conductivity Flux Heat Heat flux Thermal Thermal conductivity

In summary, heat flux is the rate of heat transfer per unit area and is an important parameter in scientific calculations. It can be calculated without thermal conductivity using the equation Q = h(T1-T2), where h is the heat transfer coefficient and T1 and T2 are temperatures. Heat flux differs from thermal conductivity in that it takes into account the area of heat transfer and can be negative, indicating heat transfer in the opposite direction. Heat flux is used in various real-world applications, such as in designing heating and cooling systems, insulation, and studying heat transfer in materials and the effects of climate change.

Oct 21, 2015

gphsuvat

How to calculate K or Q without one or the other?
For example, if the material is unknown (but cannot test density, or melting temperature)
how would you test heat flux?

Q=K(Th-Tc)/(x)

Last edited: Oct 22, 2015

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Oct 22, 2015

CWatters

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

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In the homework section the rules require you to make an attempt to answer.

Perhaps think about other experiments that involve measuring heat or power.

1. What is heat flux and why is it important in scientific calculations?

Heat flux is the rate of heat transfer per unit area. It is an important parameter in many scientific calculations because it helps us understand how heat is transferred between different materials and how much heat is being transferred.

2. How is heat flux calculated without thermal conductivity?

Heat flux can be calculated without thermal conductivity by using the equation Q = h(T1-T2) where Q is the heat flux, h is the heat transfer coefficient, and T1 and T2 are the temperatures of the two materials.

3. What is the difference between heat flux and thermal conductivity?

Heat flux is the rate of heat transfer, while thermal conductivity is a measure of how well a material conducts heat. Heat flux takes into account the area of heat transfer, while thermal conductivity only considers the material itself.

4. Can heat flux be negative and what does it mean?

Yes, heat flux can be negative. This means that heat is being transferred in the opposite direction, from a higher temperature to a lower temperature. Negative heat flux can occur in situations such as cooling or refrigeration.

5. How is heat flux used in real-world applications?

Heat flux is used in many real-world applications, such as in the design of heating and cooling systems, thermal insulation, and in the study of heat transfer in various materials. It is also important in understanding the effects of climate change and in the design of energy-efficient buildings and technologies.