Product purpose and key benefits Demonstrates heat conduction and the differences in thermal conductivity between solid materials — ideal for middle school physics lessons and hands-on classroom demonstrations. Makes the abstract concept of thermal conductivity visible and easy to compare: heat travels from a heated storage block along rods of identical size, producing measurable, observable outcomes. Simple setup and clear results help students observe, record, and discuss heat-transfer behavior in different materials. What it does (function) A heat conduction demonstrator: a central heat storage block is heated and several heat-conducting rods (each the same thickness and length) conduct heat outward in a radial arrangement. Larger rods fitted into pits can be inverted so students can clearly see heat transfer along the rod and compare how different materials conduct heat. Experimental indicator: butter is spread on the concave surface of each rod and a match is placed upright in the cavity; as heat reaches each rod tip, the butter releases the match and matches fall in sequence, showing relative thermal conductivity. Key attributes Function: Visual, comparative demonstration of thermal conductivity. Compatibility: Works with standard classroom supplies used in the described procedure (alcohol lamp, matches, small amount of butter or similar soft substance). Size and configuration: Uses heat conductor rods of the same thickness and length inserted around a central heat storage block; larger rods are fitted into pits and can be inverted to display results. (The demonstrator relies on rods of equal geometric dimensions so material differences alone determine heat-transfer behavior.) Materials: Designed to compare different solid materials as heat conductors (each rod is a solid conductor; material types are those supplied with the set). Performance: Produces a sequential, visible effect (matches detach and fall at different times) that directly correlates with the relative thermal conductivity of each rod material. How to use (concise procedure) 1. Place the demonstrator on a stable table. Spread a thin layer of butter on the concave surface of each heat-conducting rod and press a match upright into the cavity so it stands glued by the butter. 2. Heat the heat storage block with an alcohol lamp until the rods begin conducting heat outward. Observe the order and timing of matches releasing and falling — faster release indicates higher thermal conductivity. 3. For clearer viewing, invert the larger rods fitted in pits as needed to show the heat-transfer process and material differences. 4. After completion, allow the rods to cool completely before handling. Maintenance and care After the experiment and once fully cooled, wipe the rods clean, apply light oil to prevent corrosion, and store the instrument safely. Handle with care: do not drop the demonstrator or allow impacts against the heat-conducting rods. Safety notes Use an alcohol lamp with appropriate classroom supervision and follow local safety procedures for open flames. Allow parts to cool fully before touching or cleaning. Keep flammable materials away from the lamp and heated block. Practical applications / use scenarios Classroom demonstration: Teacher-led middle school physics lesson to show how different metals or solid materials conduct heat. Lab or group activity: Small groups run the experiment to time and record the sequence of matches, then compare data and draw conclusions about thermal conductivity. Science club or hands-on training: Use the demonstrator for student experiments, demonstrations in school science fairs, or teacher training sessions focused on practical measurement techniques. What makes it useful for educators Direct, visual evidence of thermal conductivity differences — supports concept retention. Reproducible and easy-to-follow procedure suitable for group observation and data collection. Durable, reusable demonstration tool when handled and stored according to the care instructions.