Does Temperature Affect the Accuracy of a Steel Metre Scale?

[zorro]

Homework Statement

A metre scale made of steel is calibrated at 20 degrees Celsius to give correct reading. Find the distance between 50cm mark and 51cm mark if the scale is used at 10 degrees Celsius. Coefficient of linear expansion of steel is 1.1 x 10^-5 C^-1

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

L=L_o(1 + $$\alpha\theta$$)
$$\theta$$ = -10
L_o = 1cm
on solving, L = 0.99989cm which is the distance between 50 and 51 cm mark.

The answer is 1.00011cm.
I don't see any logic behind this answer. As the scale is cooled, it contracts. Hence the distance between any two consecutive marks should decrease (<1cm). But the answer is contradicting.

Help please

 

[Doc Al]

I agree with your answer. The problem statement is slightly ambiguous, but I would interpret it exactly as you have.

(What book is this from?)

 

[zorro]

It is from Concepts of Physics (Part 2) by H.C. Verma.
There are no wrong answers given in this book (as per my experience)