Conductivity: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

conductivity

 

[ kənˌdʌk.tɪˈvɪt.i ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

electrical property

Conductivity is the measure of a material's ability to conduct electric current. It is a key parameter in determining how well a substance can transmit electrical signals. Higher conductivity indicates that the material allows electric charge to flow more freely.

Synonyms

conductance, transmissivity

Examples of usage

  • Copper has high electrical conductivity.
  • The conductivity of the solution increased with temperature.
  • This material has a low thermal conductivity.
Context #2 | Noun

thermal property

In terms of thermal properties, conductivity refers to the ability of a material to conduct heat. Materials with high thermal conductivity are efficient at transferring heat energy.

Synonyms

heat conductance, thermal transmittance

Examples of usage

  • Metals are generally high in thermal conductivity.
  • Insulators have low thermal conductivity.
  • This ceramic material has excellent thermal conductivity.

Translations

Translations of the word "conductivity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 condutividade

🇮🇳 संवाहनता

🇩🇪 Leitfähigkeit

🇮🇩 konduktivitas

🇺🇦 провідність

🇵🇱 przewodność

🇯🇵 導電率

🇫🇷 conductivité

🇪🇸 conductividad

🇹🇷 iletkenlik

🇰🇷 전도성

🇸🇦 التوصيلية

🇨🇿 vodivost

🇸🇰 vodivosť

🇨🇳 导电性

🇸🇮 prevodnost

🇮🇸 leiðni

🇰🇿 өткізгіштік

🇬🇪 კონდუქტივობა

🇦🇿 keçiricilik

🇲🇽 conductividad

Word origin

The term 'conductivity' was introduced in the early 19th century, deriving from the Latin root 'conducere,' meaning 'to lead together' or 'to bring together.' This concept was initially applied to the realms of electricity and heat, where understanding how materials can transmit energy is crucial. Over time, conductivity has become a fundamental concept in physics and engineering, influencing various applications from electrical engineering to materials science. The distinction between electrical and thermal conductivity emerged as scientists advanced their studies, leading to more precise measurements and theories. The systematic study of conductivity paved the way for the development of numerous technologies that rely on effective transmission of electricity and heat, forming the backbone of modern electrical systems and thermal management.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,934 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.