Solve Linear Expansion Problem at 35ºC | AP Physics 2

In summary, the conversation discusses the procedure for solving a problem involving a uniform rod with a coefficient of linear expansion and a change in temperature. The equation for linear expansion is also mentioned, along with the conversion from Celsius to Kelvin and the use of a chart for linear expansion coefficients.
  • #1
Wei
2
0
A uniform rod of a length of 2.0 m at 5ºC has a coefficient of linear expansion of 5.0 × 10^-4 K^-1. How much longer is it when the temperature is 35ºC?

I want to know the procedure to solve this problem

This isn't hw, but I'm wondering how to solve it when it's K ^-1
Just trying to get some practice.
Currently taking AP Physics 2; Passed this topic last semester and reviewing
 
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  • #2
I think K-1 just means 1/K, meaning that it's a change of 5.0x10-4 per change in kelvin.
 
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Likes Wei
  • #3
Drakkith said:
I think K-1 just means 1/K, meaning that it's a change of 5.0x10-4 per change in kelvin.
Oh that's what it means? Since it was K^-1 I just assumed that it was 1/5.0x10^-4 K
Ok Thanks!
 
  • #4
here is the equation for linear expansion.
L=Li+Li*k*change in tempature, units are L=length after tempature change in celcius or kelvin, Li=length before tempature change, k=constant that is the linear expanison coefiicient units are 1/k or 1/c, tempature=measured in celcius or kelvin.
by the way for volume expansion just multiply the linear expansion by 3.
this equation could be very helpful if you have a chart of the linear expansion coefficients.
 

Related to Solve Linear Expansion Problem at 35ºC | AP Physics 2

1. What is linear expansion and how does it relate to temperature?

Linear expansion is the change in length of an object due to a change in temperature. This phenomenon occurs because as the temperature increases, the particles in the object gain kinetic energy and vibrate faster, causing the object to expand. This expansion is directly proportional to the change in temperature.

2. How do you calculate linear expansion?

The formula for linear expansion is ΔL = αL0ΔT, where ΔL is the change in length, α is the coefficient of linear expansion, L0 is the original length, and ΔT is the change in temperature. The coefficient of linear expansion is a constant that depends on the material of the object and can be found in a reference table.

3. What is the difference between linear and volumetric expansion?

Linear expansion refers to the change in length of an object, while volumetric expansion refers to the change in volume. Volumetric expansion occurs when all three dimensions of an object (length, width, and height) are affected by a change in temperature, while linear expansion only affects one dimension.

4. How does temperature affect the coefficient of linear expansion?

The coefficient of linear expansion varies with temperature. As the temperature increases, the particles in the object vibrate faster and the coefficient of linear expansion also increases. This means that the object will expand more for a given change in temperature at higher temperatures.

5. How is linear expansion used in real-world applications?

Linear expansion is used in the design of structures and materials to account for changes in temperature. For example, bridges are built with expansion joints to allow for the expansion and contraction of the materials due to temperature changes. It is also used in the design of thermometers and other temperature measuring devices.

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