Question

Machines have moving parts and electronics that can overheat in some situations. Engineers use metal heat sinks to help the heat escape from the machine. A heat sink is made of metal and usually has fins, which give the heat sink a large surface area. Why is it important for heat sinks to be made of metal and have a large surface area?

Answer 1

Because any other substance couldn't carry the heat and the amount of surface area gives it more of an opportunity to cool down