Final answer:
The rate of heat conduction through windows can be calculated using Fourier's Law of Heat Conduction, which considers the thermal conductivity, area, temperature difference, and thickness of the material.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the rate of heat conduction through windows with varying thicknesses and materials, we can use the Fourier's Law of Heat Conduction. The law states that the rate (Q) at which heat is transferred through a material is proportional to the negative gradient in temperature and the area A through which the heat transfers:
Q = -kA ΔT/d
where:
- k is the thermal conductivity of the material,
- A is the area of the material,
- ΔT is the temperature difference across the material, and
- d is the thickness of the material.
To compare the rates of heat conduction through different materials and thicknesses, we apply the formula separately for each scenario and then compare the resultant rates.