Question

3) Why does a metal surface feel colder on a cold day than a wooden surface?

Answer 1

Metal generally has a higher density that wood and as a consequence generally has a a higher specific heat than wood. As a consequence of that, you sense a greater amount of heat drawn away from you finger, as energy is transferred from your finger to area of contact.

The energy is transferred because nature likes things to be in equilibrium and is causing the heat transfer in an attempt to drive both objects--the metal and your finger--to have the same temperature.

Answer 2

JamesJ. I might use the fact that metal has a higher thermal conductivity as the explanation. You are correct in saying that nature wishes to reach equilibrium. This fact paired with the higher conductivity means your finger's heat dissipates faster throughout the metal. This greater heat flux makes for a cold sensation in your finger.

Answer 3

Yes, you're right. Conductivity is a better explanation than specific heat.