Thermal Expansion linear vs area expansion

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the relationship between linear and area expansion coefficients in thermal expansion. It explains that the area coefficient of expansion is twice the linear coefficient because both dimensions of an object contribute to the area change. An example involving a square surface illustrates how the change in area is derived from the linear expansion of each side. The participants clarify that the increase in area is not simply equal to the new area but involves a calculation based on the changes in both dimensions. The conversation concludes with an affirmation that the explanation satisfactorily addresses the initial question.
Searay330
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this is a picture of my notes for thermal expansion for linear vs area.
my question is why does the area coefficient of expansion for the area = 2(liner coefficient of expansion).
any insight would be appreciated.
 
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As an example to ponder, consider an object with a flat, square surface that is L units of length on each side. Apply the linear expansion concept to each dimension and work out an expression for the change in area. Then consider that the coefficient of linear expansion ##\alpha## is typically on the order of a few parts per million per degree C. Is there an obvious simplification?
 
im not sure the change in area would be equal to the new L2 and that is the only dimension that changes
 
Searay330 said:
im not sure the change in area would be equal to the new L2 and that is the only dimension that changes
No, the change in area would not equal L2.
If the original side of the square is L, the original area is L2.
If the new side length is ##L+\alpha L\Delta T##, what is new area? How much has the area increased by?
 
its increased by 2(αLΔT) one for each side
 
Searay330 said:
its increased by 2(αLΔT) one for each side
Right. Does that answer your original question?
 
yes
 
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