A common model of a solid assumes a regular lattice of atoms which interact via perfectly harmonic forces. Although this model can explain many properties of solids, it is unable to explain why the thermal conductivity of dielectric crystals is not infinite. The source of the problem lies in the slightly anharmonic nature of the forces involved. The following article describes a simple model which allows the effect of the anharmonic forces to be calculated and the thermal conductivity estimated. The results are in agreement with other methods of calculation.
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