What is the term for the ability of a material to conduct heat?

The term that refers to the ability of a material to conduct heat is thermal conductivity. This property defines how well a material can transfer heat through it when subjected to a temperature difference. Materials with high thermal conductivity, such as metals, can efficiently transfer heat, making them suitable for applications requiring rapid heat dissipation, like cookware or heat exchangers. Conversely, materials with low thermal conductivity serve as insulators, reducing heat transfer, which is desirable in applications like building insulation.

Understanding thermal conductivity is crucial in fields like materials science, engineering, and environmental design, as it influences decisions about materials used in various applications based on their heat transfer characteristics.