Conductivity
ˌkɒndʌkˈtɪvɪti
Definitions
The ability of a substance to transmit electricity, heat, or sound.
ˌkɒndʌkˈtɪvɪti
The degree to which a specified material conducts electricity, heat, or sound.
Copper is known for its high electrical conductivity.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're making a circuit. Conductivity is how easily electricity travels through something. Think of copper wires, which are super conductive, like a highway for electricity! Other things might block electricity, like rubber, which has low conductivity.
👶 For kids: How well something lets electricity or heat go through it, like a slide for tiny electric parts!
More Examples
The thermal conductivity of the material determined its ability to keep the object cool.
Scientists are studying the conductivity of graphene for advanced electronic devices.
How It's Used
"The metal's high conductivity makes it ideal for electrical wiring."
"Engineers assess the thermal conductivity of materials for heat transfer applications."
"The conductivity of a solution is a measure of its ability to conduct an electric current, typically due to the presence of ions."
From late Latin *conductivitas*, from *conductus* (led, guided) + *-ivitas* (forming abstract nouns). The Latin *conductus* comes from *condūcō* (to lead together, conduct). The term's modern scientific use developed during the 18th and 19th centuries with studies on electricity and heat.
The term 'conductivity' gained significant traction in the scientific community during the 19th century with the development of electrical and thermal theories.
Memory tip
Think of a "conductor" guiding electricity. High conductivity means electricity flows easily.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: condūcō