The three rods shown in the figure have identical dimensions. Heat flows from the hot end at a rate of $40 \, W$ in the arrangement $(a)$. Find the rate of heat flow when the rods are joined as in arrangement $(b)$ (Assume $K_{Al} = 200 \, W/m^{\circ}C$ and $K_{Cu} = 400 \, W/m^{\circ}C$). (in $, W$)

$A$ wall consists of alternating blocks of length $d$ and coefficients of thermal conductivity $K_{1}$ and $K_{2}$ respectively,as shown in the figure. The cross-sectional areas of the blocks are the same. The equivalent coefficient of thermal conductivity of the wall between the left and right sides is

Two metal rods are arranged as shown in the figure. Their thermal conductivities are $K_1$ and $K_2$. What is their equivalent thermal conductivity?

Find the effective thermal resistance between $A$ and $B$ of a cube made up of $12$ rods of the same dimensions,with the given thermal conductivities as shown in the figure. [ $l =$ length of rod,$a =$ cross-sectional area of rod ]

The temperatures of the two outer surfaces of a composite slab are $T_2$ and $T_1$ $(T_2 > T_1)$. The thermal conductivities of the materials are $K$ and $2K$,and their thicknesses are $x$ and $4x$,respectively. In the steady state,the rate of heat flow through the slab is given by $f \left( \frac{A(T_2 - T_1)K}{x} \right)$. Find the value of $f$.

Why do people prefer to give a layer of sand or foam insulation on ceilings made of concrete?