Why, in a thermal flask, does having a vacuum layer help keep the coffee warm?

Heat is transferred by 3 processes, conducation, convection and radiation. Having a vacuum layer stops heat being transferred away from the coffee by conduction. Conduction works by air molecules bumping into eachother and transferring some of the energy they have, therefore if you remove the air then you stop energy/heat being taken away in this way which helps keep the coffee warmer for longer.

BO
Answered by Benjamin O. Physics tutor

2994 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

what is the total resistance of 2 resistors each with resistance 2 ohms in parallel?


Why does voltage increase (for a constant current) if temperature increases?


Draw a graph depicting a skydivers speed against time when jumping from a plane, until he deploys his parachute, explaining the logic of your answer through the forces applicable to the body.


What is the resistance (in Ohms) of two 20 Ohm resisters in parallel?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning