Quick question on thermal expansion.

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SUMMARY

The assertion that in a bimetallic strip of brass and copper, the brass is on the inside of the curve when heated is false. Brass has a higher coefficient of linear expansion compared to copper, which means it expands more when subjected to heat. Consequently, when heated, the brass will expand faster, causing the strip to curl with the brass on the outside of the curve. This behavior is governed by the principle of thermal expansion, specifically described by the equation deltaL = alpha * Lo * deltaT.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermal expansion principles
  • Familiarity with coefficients of linear expansion
  • Basic knowledge of bimetallic strip applications
  • Ability to apply the equation deltaL = alpha * Lo * deltaT
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the coefficients of linear expansion for various materials
  • Explore applications of bimetallic strips in temperature sensing
  • Learn about the mechanical stress in materials due to thermal expansion
  • Study the effects of temperature changes on material properties
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Students studying physics, engineers working with thermal systems, and anyone interested in the practical applications of thermal expansion in materials science.

marmot
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Homework Statement


In a bimetallic strip of brass and copper which curls when heated, the brass is on the inside of the curve.

True or false?


Homework Equations



deltaL=alpha*Lo*deltaT



The Attempt at a Solution


It is false but I do not get why. Brass has a higher coefficient of linear expansion so if it is in the inside, I suppose it will expand faster than the copper causing stress in the copper to curl?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Brass expands more, so the strips will bend so the brass strip is on the outside. If it bent so far as to form a circle, you could say greater radius, greater circumference.
 

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