Finding coefficient of thermal expansion

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) using the potential energy equation V = -A/r + B/r10, where A = 5 x 10-30 and B = 8 x 10-121. The CTE is defined as the change in length per unit length per change in temperature, expressed as α = ΔL/(LΔT). Participants noted that the graph of potential energy versus interatomic separation distance (r) must be correctly plotted for r > 0 to derive accurate results regarding the CTE.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy equations in physics
  • Familiarity with the concept of interatomic separation distance
  • Knowledge of thermal expansion and its mathematical representation
  • Experience with graphing tools or software for data visualization
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  • Research the derivation of the coefficient of thermal expansion from potential energy functions
  • Learn how to accurately plot potential energy graphs using software like MATLAB or Python
  • Study the implications of negative and positive CTE in materials science
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Students in physics or materials science, researchers analyzing thermal properties of materials, and educators teaching concepts related to thermal expansion and potential energy.

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Homework Statement



"see attachment" "q1"

Homework Equations



V=\frac{-A}{r}+\frac{B}{r^{10}}
A=5*10^-30
B=8*10^-121

V=potential energy r=interatomic separation distance

Coefficient of thermal expansion = \frac{change in L}{L*change in T}

The Attempt at a Solution



I have tried making graphs for V vs r however it give me a very weird curve. Furthermore, how do I find the coefficient of thermal expansion from potential energy vs interatomic separation distance? All I know is that in a V vs r, if the energy well to the right of the absolute zero is larger than that of the left, the CTE is positive and negative for vice versa.

"see graph 1"

I also try to draw this graph on my graphic calculator but it gives me result similar to y= -1/x
 

Attachments

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    q1.png
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  • graph 1.jpg
    graph 1.jpg
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In your plot V(r) you also consider x\leq0, which is not correct, because distance r must be r>0. The coefficient of thermal (linear) expansion alpha relates the change in longitude L and the change in temperature T, \frac{\Delta L}{L}=\alpha \Delta T, in units K-1. So now you have an input for the variation of T...

PS. The energy on the 'left' of the absolute zero is like saying the north of the north pole, or the time before the Big Bang... :O
 

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