How to find the thermal expansion coefficient?

In summary, the thermal expansion coefficient is a measure of how much a material's size changes in response to a change in temperature, expressed as a fractional change in length or volume per degree Celsius (or Kelvin). It can be calculated using the formula α = (ΔL/L0)/ΔT, and is affected by factors such as chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical properties. It is important to know for various fields of science and engineering, and can be measured using techniques such as dilatometry, interferometry, and thermomechanical analysis.
  • #1
da_coolest
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following is an example question i found on a lecture slide. I need some explanation to understand it.

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/7062/thermal.png

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In this example, Is it possible to get the thermal expansion coefficient from the data given in the question? if then, how to do that?
 
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  • #2
The thermal expansion coefficient α is given, α = 20 x 10-6 °C-1.
 

1. What is thermal expansion coefficient?

The thermal expansion coefficient is a measure of how much a material's size changes in response to a change in temperature. It is expressed as a fractional change in length or volume per degree Celsius (or Kelvin) of temperature change.

2. How do you calculate thermal expansion coefficient?

The thermal expansion coefficient (α) can be calculated using the formula: α = (ΔL/L0)/ΔT, where ΔL is the change in length, L0 is the original length, and ΔT is the change in temperature.

3. What factors can affect the thermal expansion coefficient of a material?

The thermal expansion coefficient of a material can be affected by various factors, including its chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical properties such as density, thermal conductivity, and specific heat capacity. Additionally, the temperature range and rate of temperature change can also impact the thermal expansion coefficient.

4. Why is it important to know the thermal expansion coefficient of a material?

Knowing the thermal expansion coefficient of a material is important in various fields of science and engineering, such as in the design and construction of structures, machinery, and electronics. It helps to predict and account for changes in size and shape due to temperature fluctuations, ensuring the safety and functionality of the material or object.

5. How can the thermal expansion coefficient be measured?

The thermal expansion coefficient can be measured using various techniques, such as dilatometry, interferometry, and thermomechanical analysis. These methods involve subjecting a sample of the material to controlled temperature changes and measuring the resulting dimensional changes. Other indirect methods, such as X-ray diffraction and ultrasonic techniques, can also be used to determine the thermal expansion coefficient of a material.

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