Heat Conduction: Copper vs. Iron (Fourier’s Law)

Theory

Conduction follows the heat equation $\frac{\partial T}{\partial t}=\alpha \frac{{\partial }^{2}T}{\partial x^2}$. Copper’s diffusivity $\alpha$ is ~5× that of iron. In steady state, $T(x)$ becomes linear between the reservoirs (Fourier’s law).

What to observe

• Copper’s T(x) profile reaches the straight line long before iron’s.
• The thermometers sit at the middle of the bars.

Try this

• Insulate the right end.
• Use glass: it barely conducts.

Also available in: Condução de calor: cobre × ferro (lei de Fourier) (Português) · Conducción de calor: cobre vs. hierro (ley de Fourier) (Español)