Fourier's Law of Heat Conduction
Formula: Q = (k × A × ΔT) / d
Where:
- Q is the heat transfer per unit time (Watts, W)
- k is the thermal conductivity of the material (W/m·K)
- A is the area through which heat is being transferred (m²)
- ΔT is the temperature difference across the material (K)
- d is the thickness or length of the material through which the heat is being conducted (m)
Fourier's Law of heat conduction states that the rate of heat transfer through a material is proportional to the negative gradient of the temperature and the area through which the heat transfers. It quantifies the relationship between the heat transfer rate, the material's thermal conductivity, the area and temperature gradient, and the material's thickness. Practically, the law is crucial for calculating heat transfer in various applications such as thermal insulation, heating and cooling systems, and electronics cooling.