Thermal Radiation of a steel ball

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies why a steel ball feels hotter than a piece of charcoal at the same temperature when touched. This phenomenon is attributed to the higher thermal conductivity of metals, which allows them to transfer heat more efficiently through conduction. The discussion emphasizes that thermal radiation is not a factor in this sensation, as conduction is the primary heat transfer process when touching objects at safe temperatures. Thus, the steel ball deposits more heat into the skin quickly, resulting in a hotter sensation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermal conductivity
  • Basic principles of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation
  • Knowledge of material properties, specifically metals
  • Familiarity with temperature measurement concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the thermal conductivity of various materials
  • Explore the principles of heat transfer in detail
  • Investigate the differences between conduction and thermal radiation
  • Learn about the specific heat capacities of metals versus non-metals
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, materials scientists, and anyone interested in understanding heat transfer mechanisms in different materials.

Samujawal
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Why does a steel ball appear hotter than a charcoal piece at the same temperature when picked up by bare hands?
 
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That has nothing to do with the thermal radiatiuon.
Metals are actually worse at radiating heat.
As long as you can touch objects, without burning yourself, conduction is the dominant heat transfer process.
The metal just has a higher thermal conductivity so it "deposits" more heat into your hand in a given amount of time.
That is why it feels hotter.
Your skin gets warmed faster.
 
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Tazerfish said:
That has nothing to do with the thermal radiatiuon.
Metals are actually worse at radiating heat.
As long as you can touch objects, without burning yourself, conduction is the dominant heat transfer process.
The metal just has a higher thermal conductivity so it "deposits" more heat into your hand in a given amount of time.
That is why it feels hotter.
Your skin gets warmed faster.
Many many Thanks...
 

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