Thermal conductivity of liquid water versus temperature: qualitative trend. How does the thermal conductivity (k) of water change as temperature rises across the practical engineering range? Choose the most correct qualitative statement.

ConceptLiquid water exhibits a non-monotonic variation of thermal conductivity with temperature: k can increase over some ranges and decrease over others due to changing molecular interactions.

ConclusionThe safest, broadly correct statement is may increase or decrease depending upon temperature.