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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Conductivity and Conductance?

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The main difference between conductivity and conductance lies in the properties they represent and the way they are measured:

  • Conductivity is a property of a material itself, which determines how well the material conducts electricity. It is largely determined by the number of electrons in the outermost shell of the material's atoms and their ease of mobility. Conductivity is measured in Siemens per meter (S/m).
  • Conductance, on the other hand, is a property of a specific electrical component, such as a wire or a resistor. It represents the ease with which an electrical current flows through the component. Conductance is measured in Siemens (S).

In summary, conductivity is a property of a material, while conductance is a property of an electrical component. Conductivity is measured in Siemens per meter, whereas conductance is measured in Siemens.

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  • What is the Difference Between Conductivity and Conductance?
  • Comparative Table: Conductivity vs Conductance

    • Comparative Table: Conductivity vs Conductance

    The main differences between conductivity and conductance are summarized in the following table:

    Property Conductivity Conductance
    Definition The conductivity of a material is the conductance of a block having unit dimensions at a given temperature. Conductance is the reciprocal of resistance, measured between two opposing electrodes of a 1 cm cube at a specific temperature.
    Unit Conductivity is measured in Siemens per meter (S/m). Siemens per centimeter (S/cm) is also used in some cases. Conductance is measured in Siemens (S).
    Dependence on Dimensions Conductivity does not depend on the dimensions of the conductor. Conductance depends on the dimensions of the conductor.
    Mass Dependence Conductivity is an inherent or intrinsic property and does not depend on mass. Conductance is a mass-dependent property.
    Application Conductivity is applicable to materials in general. Conductance is used in specific components or devices, such as sensors with unique dimensions and electrode configurations.

    In summary, conductivity is a property of the material that does not depend on its dimensions or mass, while conductance is a property of a specific component or device that depends on its dimensions and mass. Conductance is the reciprocal of resistance, and it is used to measure the ease of flow of electric current through a component.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.