Engineering Sciences
Mechanical Engineering
1822
IntermediateFourier's Law of Conduction
Heat flux proportional to negative temperature gradient through material.
By Joseph Fourier
Engineering Sciences
Fourier's Law of Conduction
1822 · Joseph Fourier
Why it matters: Enables thermal design of engines, buildings, and electronics.
Discoverers: Joseph Fourier (1822)
What does it mean?
Heat flux proportional to negative temperature gradient through material.
Why should I care?
Enables thermal design of engines, buildings, and electronics.
Variables & Units
| Symbol | Name | Unit | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat flux | — | W/m² | |
| Thermal conductivity | — | W/(m·K) | |
| Temperature | — | K |
Worked Example
Copper k ≈ 400 W/(m·K); air k ≈ 0.024.
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Fourier's Law of Conduction
Real-world impact
Energy infrastructure
Thermodynamic limits shape power and transport.
Photo: Unsplash — power plant
Heat flux proportional to negative temperature gradient through material.
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