Can the Coefficient of Expansion Be Expressed in Both Kelvin and Celsius?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the coefficient of thermal expansion, specifically regarding its expression in Kelvin and Celsius. The original poster questions whether the coefficient can be used interchangeably in these temperature scales and if temperature conversion is necessary for calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between Kelvin and Celsius, noting that both scales have the same incremental value. The original poster seeks clarity on whether unit conversion is required for the coefficient of expansion.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights suggesting that conversion between Kelvin and Celsius is unnecessary due to their equivalent increments. The discussion appears to be moving towards a shared understanding of the relationship between the two temperature scales.

Contextual Notes

The original poster references an assignment that lists the coefficient of expansion in Kelvin while providing temperatures in Celsius, indicating a potential source of confusion regarding unit consistency.

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I just have a quick question. In my assignment the coefficient of expansion for mercury is listed in K, and the temperatures given are listed in degress C.

Online I've seen the exact same coefficient of expansion (1.8 x 10-4) but in Celsius.

Can the coefficient be in either units, and therefore do I need to change the units of my temperature to get the correct answer?
 
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No you don't need to convert between the two, one degree kelvin is of the same magnitude as one degree celsius. In otherwords if the temperature is increased by 1 degree celsius it is also increased by one degree kelvin.

~H
 
thanks that makes sense
 
Kelvin and celsius a scales use the same divisions but different zero starting points thus the coefficient of expansion is exactly the same in either units as there is a 1:1 relationship.

Edit: Too late
 

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