Thermal conduction is the process by which heat energy is transferred through materials. This occurs when particles in a substance collide with one another, transferring kinetic energy from the hotter areas to the cooler areas. Metals, such as copper and aluminum, are excellent conductors of heat due to their closely packed atoms, which facilitate efficient energy transfer. In contrast, materials like wood and rubber are poor conductors, known as insulators, because their atomic structure hinders the movement of heat. The rate of thermal conduction depends on factors such as the material's temperature, thickness, and surface area, influencing how quickly heat can move through it.