Thermal Conduction Comparison Lab

What you'll learn

• How thermal energy is transferred through particle collisions and electron movement.
• The difference in conduction rates between metals (conductors) and non-metals (insulators).
• The concept of thermal equilibrium where net heat flow becomes zero.

How to use it

1. Select two different starting materials (e.g., Copper and Wood) from the interface.
2. Press and hold the heat button to add kinetic energy to the start of the rods.
3. Observe how the particles physically transfer kinetic energy across the material.

Notes

This model illustrates conduction via lattice vibrations and particle collisions. It is a great conceptual foundation for GCSE students and a solid refresher for A-Level physics.