Conductors and insulators
Conduction
Conduction is the kinetic energy of atoms and electrons spreading gradually through a material by collisions with neighbouring particles. It is the main way heat travels through solids: along a metal rod held in a flame, or from the outside to the inside of the base of a pan on the stove.
Heat conductors
Conduct heat well: silver, copper, iron, mercury, aluminium.
Metals conduct well because of their free electrons.
Heat insulators
Conduct heat poorly: wood, plastic, asbestos, clay, wool.
Liquids and gases are poor conductors; water is a very poor one.
The robin
It fluffs up its feathers to trap a layer of air, a very poor conductor, and keeps warm in winter.
The seal
It spends its life in cold water, and a very thick layer of fat around its body stops its heat being conducted away.
Figure to be added