What Causes Heat to be Released in a Deformed Spring?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of heat generation in a deformed spring, particularly focusing on the mechanisms behind the temperature rise observed when a spring is repeatedly compressed and extended. Participants explore the atomic and molecular interactions involved in this process, addressing both theoretical and practical aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that repeated compression and extension of a spring leads to an increase in temperature, prompting questions about the source of this heat.
  • It is clarified that temperature and heat are distinct concepts, with heat being the energy transferred due to temperature differences, while temperature reflects the average kinetic energy of molecules.
  • One participant suggests that the rise in temperature is due to an increase in the kinetic energy of the spring's particles as energy is input into the system.
  • Another participant questions how kinetic energy can increase if atoms are assumed to interact elastically, leading to further inquiries about the nature of atomic interactions.
  • It is proposed that in theory, a spring does not produce heat, as energy is stored during compression; however, practical observations indicate that excessive force can lead to deformation and rupture, breaking molecular links and releasing energy as heat.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the mechanisms of heat generation in springs, with some asserting that energy is stored elastically while others highlight the role of molecular deformation and rupture in producing heat. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the assumptions made about atomic interactions, particularly regarding elasticity and the conditions under which heat is generated. The discussion also reflects a dependency on definitions of heat and temperature, which may not be universally agreed upon.

j-lee00
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For example

If I extend and compress a spring numerous times the spring will increase in temperature.

Where does the rise in temperature come from?

The atoms that "make up" the spring from an atomistic point where does this rise in temperature come from?
 
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First off, temperature and heat are not the same thing.

Heat is the energy transferred from one object to another due to a difference in temperature.

Temperature is just the average kinetic energy of the molecules in a substance.
 
Superstring said:
First off, temperature and heat are not the same thing.

Heat is the energy transferred from one object to another due to a difference in temperature.

Temperature is just the average kinetic energy of the molecules in a substance.

Correct, it was a mistake however can be rationalized, with the fact that there is heat "caused by" the compression and extension of the spring.

But the point is was, where does the temperature rise come from?

Is your ans that the average KE is increased of the spring particles?
 
j-lee00 said:
Correct, it was a mistake however can be rationalized, with the fact that there is heat "caused by" the compression and extension of the spring.

But the point is was, where does the temperature rise come from?

From a rise in the kinetic energy of the substance. You put energy into the spring and the molecules reacted accordingly.
 
But how does the KE rise if it is assumed that atoms are spheres which interact elastically?
 
You just answered your own question: they don't quite act elastically.
 
russ_watters said:
You just answered your own question: they don't quite act elastically.

How do they interact then in this case?
 
In theory, a spring does not produce heat, because all energy used to compress it, is "stored" until it is released.

In practice, metal spring can be deformed (sagging). If too much force is employed it can leads to rupture. This, obviously, means breaking molecular links (even deformation). When links are broken, energy is released in the form of heat.
 

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