What is the derivation of Fourier's Law of Conduction?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of Fourier's Law of Conduction, specifically how a differential form of the law transforms into a more simplified equation. Participants explore the mathematical relationships involved, including the definitions of variables and assumptions regarding temperature gradients.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the initial equation dQ=-X*dS*grad(T)*dt and asks how it transforms into Q=-X*S*(T2-T1)*delta(t)/d.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the meaning of S, which is confirmed to represent surface area.
  • A participant provides the one-dimensional form of Fourier's Law, stating that dQ/dt = -kS(dT/dx), where k is thermal conductivity and dT/dx represents the temperature gradient.
  • There is a suggestion to integrate the equation under the assumption of a linear temperature gradient across the material.
  • A later reply notes that the initial differential form is a partial differential equation (PDE) and mentions a resource for solving the 1-D heat equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definitions of variables and the form of Fourier's Law, but there are varying interpretations of the transformation process and the assumptions involved in deriving the equations.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions regarding the linearity of temperature distribution and the specific conditions under which the equations apply remain unresolved. The discussion also highlights the potential confusion surrounding variable notation.

Bassalisk
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Hello,

Can anybody explain to me how does this:

dQ=-X*dS*grad(T)*dt

t being time and T being TD temperature.

transforms into this:

Q=-X*S*(T2-T1)*delta(t)/d

delta(t) being time interval

d being thickness length of material
X being heat conductivity

Thanks
 
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Maybe I don't quite get the form you have it in...S is what exactly?
 
timthereaper said:
Maybe I don't quite get the form you have it in...S is what exactly?

S=Surface or Area
 
Is S area ?
 
Studiot said:
Is S area ?
Yes.
 
The one dimensional form of the law is

\frac{{dQ}}{{dt}} = - kS\frac{{dT}}{{dx}}

Where dQ/dt is the rate of heat flow which is directly proportional to the cross sectional area and the temperature gradient.
T is temperature
You only need use grad (T) for 3 D where grad(T) is the direction of max gradient.
t is time
S is area cross section
k is the constant of proportionality (thermal conductivity) -I don't like X because x is the axis variable.
 
You can integrate this if you assume the temperature fall to be a linear function of x through the material to obtain your second formula.

That is dT = ax and integrate between limits x =0 and x = thickness to eliminate constant of integration.
 
Thanks all, I got it now.
 

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