What does the term "thermal conductivity" describe?

The term "thermal conductivity" specifically refers to a material's ability to conduct heat. This property is crucial in various engineering and manufacturing applications, as it determines how well a material can transfer thermal energy from one area to another. Materials with high thermal conductivity, such as metals, allow heat to pass through them easily, while those with low thermal conductivity, such as insulators, resist heat flow. Understanding thermal conductivity is essential for designing systems related to heat exchange, thermal insulation, and energy efficiency. This property has significant implications in areas such as HVAC systems, thermal management in electronics, and material selection for various industrial applications.