Episode 1 — Insulation & Energy Saving

Insulation

Learners will be able to:

• Define insulation and identify a thermal insulator as a material with low thermal conductivity. • Explain the relationship between thermal conductivity, the thickness of a material, and its effectiveness as an insulator. • Give examples of everyday items, such as pot handles, kettle handles and oven gloves, that use insulating materials to prevent heat transfer. • Explain why appliances and systems are designed to reduce the wasteful dissipation of thermal energy to the surroundings. • Explain why layered clothing made from materials such as wool reduces heat loss from the body in cold weather.