Question

Identify and explain the different conductivity regimes. Where does ionization dominate? How about Intrinsic behavior?

Answer 1

Types of conductivity regimes are as follows:

(1) Thermal conductivity : It measures the ability of a material to conduct thermal energy (heat). It is measured in Watts per meter Kelvin (W/mK). Metals are good conductors of thermal enrgy and have high thermal conductivity.

(2) Electrical conductivity : It measures the ability of a material to conduct electric energy. It is measured in Siemens per meter (S/m).

(3) Ionic conductivity: It measures the ability of an ion to move through the crystalline structure of a compound. Electrolytes are the compounds that allow the movement of ions.

(4) Hydraulic conductivity: It measures the rate at which water can move through the porous elements of a surface. It is extremely important for assessing the permeability of soils, rocks and plant layers.

Ionization dominate in ion conductivity because ionization is necessary for the formation of ions.

Intrinsic behavior is domant in electrical conductivity because the conduction of elcetrical energy is an intrinsic property and does not depend on the inpurities present in the material.