Final answer:
Double-glazed windows often use Low-E Glass to enhance thermal performance due to its reflective layer that reduces heat transfer. Glass is less thermally conductive than metals, providing better insulation. Possible errors in thermal performance assessments can arise from inaccurate measurements and ignoring other heat transfer methods.
Step-by-step explanation:
Double-glazed windows commonly incorporate Low-E Glass to improve their thermal performance. This glass has a microscopically thin, transparent layer that reflects heat and thus provides superior insulation. This layer acts to reduce the rate of heat transfer compared to normal glass, making Low-E glass more energy-efficient.
Regarding thermal properties, glass is less conductive than metals, meaning it doesn't transfer heat as quickly. Metals are typically good conductors of heat, which is why metal objects feel cold or hot very quickly depending on their surroundings. In contrast, glass has a much higher resistance to heat flow, making it an excellent choice for insulation in double-glazed windows.
When analyzing errors in thermal performance measurements or calculations, potential sources of error could include: inaccurate measurement of the glass or air gap thickness, incorrect temperature readings, and ignoring other forms of heat transfer such as convection in the air gap or radiation.