Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Thermal conductivity (\( k \)) is a physical property of a material that measures its ability to conduct heat.
Metals generally have high thermal conductivities due to the presence of free electrons that can easily transport thermal energy.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us compare the approximate thermal conductivity values of the listed metals at room temperature:
- Silver: \( k \approx 429\text{ W/m}\cdot\text{K} \)
- Copper: \( k \approx 401\text{ W/m}\cdot\text{K} \)
- Aluminium: \( k \approx 237\text{ W/m}\cdot\text{K} \)
- Stainless steel: \( k \approx 15\text{ W/m}\cdot\text{K} \)
Among all common elements and metals, silver has the highest thermal conductivity, followed closely by copper.
Thus, silver is the correct answer.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The metal with the highest thermal conductivity is Silver.