The thermal conductivities of some substances are given in the table.

Thermal conductivities of some common substances
Substance	$W m^{-1} K^{-1}$
Air (dry)	0.026
Aluminum	245
Brass	105
Brick	0.6
Copper	400
Glass	0.8
Ice	1.7
Iron	85
Lead	35
Plastic foam	0.03
Rubber	0.2
Silver	430
Water	0.59
Wood	0.08

 

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

Water is a poor conductor. Water at the top of the test tube starts boiling after getting heat from the burner without melting ice.

 

DO YOU KNOW

Sauce pans are made of metal for quick heat transfer.

 

DO YOU KNOW

Feathers give good thermal insulation especially when fluffed up.