Answer to Question #202812 in Physics for Ethan

Question

You start in the basement and notice that it is freezing cold! Even though you are inside it is noticeably colder than the first floor of your house. Why is it so much colder here than on the first floor?

Answer 1

Because the thermal conductivity of basement (concrete) is much greater than the heat conductivity of the floor covered with a carpet or wood. Therefore, your body (that is 36.6°C) gives out heat to the basement (which is cooler than the 36.6) at a higher rate than to the floor.