Explain the importance of thermal paste.

Answers

1. Thermal paste, or some oily thermal interface material, is necessary because it fills in
the microscopic imperfections that otherwise trap air particles between the CPU and the
heat sink, preventing the CPU from properly cooling. Heat radiates outward from the CPU
to the heat sink, before eventually making its way to a fan where it disperses; but, since air
is a notoriously poor conductor of heat, an outside element is needed to bridge the gap
between the two components.

2. The role of thermal paste is to help transfer heat away from the CPU and into the heat sink. The
heat sink then expels the heat away from the hardware. This keeps the CPU cool, especially
when it's hard at work processing tasks.

3. The surface of the CPU and the heat sink's contact plate is covered in tiny grooves and gaps. If
not properly sealed up, these gaps allow air between the processor and the heat sink, reducing
the heat transfer efficiency between the two.

4. This is where thermal paste comes in. Not only is thermal paste a good conductor of heat, but it
can get into those small gaps and grooves on the surfaces of the hardware. This creates an airtight
seal and increases the rate of heat transfer.

5. Over time, the thermal paste will get old and dry. The dryness reduces its effectiveness and
causes the CPU to get toasty. This occurrence is why people suggest re-applying the thermal
paste to prevent a computer from overheating.

Kavungya answered the question on September 1, 2021 at 05:32

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Explain the importance of thermal paste.

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