conductivity
kon-duk-TIV-ih-tee
/ˌkɒndʌkˈtɪvɪti/
The degree to which a specified material conducts electricity or heat.
An intrinsic property of a material, independent of its physical dimensions.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'conductus', meaning led together. In physics, it denotes how well electrons are guided through a material lattice.
Word relationships
- transmissivity: Refers to how readily a medium transmits radiation or fluids, rather than electrical charges.
- resistivity: Resistivity is the mathematical inverse of conductivity, quantifying opposition to current.
Commonly confused with
- conductance: Conductance applies to a specific object, whereas conductivity is a general material property.
Word family
- conduct (verb): To transmit heat or electricity.
- conductor (noun): A material that allows the flow of charge.
Collocations
- electrical conductivity
- thermal conductivity
- high conductivity
- molar conductivity
Example sentences
- "Copper is widely favored in electrical wiring due to its exceptionally high electrical conductivity." Materials science report
- "Testing water conductivity reveals the concentration of dissolved mineral salts." Environmental testing
Memory hook
CONDUCTORS have high CONDUCTIVITY because they lead current smoothly. How easily charges flow through matter.
When not to use
Do not confuse with conductance, which depends on the size and shape of a specific component.
Fun facts
- Silver has the highest electrical conductivity of all metals, but copper is used more often because it is far cheaper.
Related words
Explore more words
conductor, conduction, resistance, Connectivity, semiconductor, Temperature
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