What is the Work Done by a Heated Metal Rod?

In summary, a metal rod with length "L", cross-sectional area "A", Young's modulus "Y", and coefficient of linear expansion "α" is heated to "t" degrees Celsius. The work that can be performed by the rod when heated is calculated using the formula: work = 1/2 YAL(α ∆t)^2, where ∆t is the increase in temperature due to heating. However, in the book answer, the reference temperature is assumed to be 0 degrees Celsius, while you take a more general approach. Other than that, there is no difference between your answer and the book answer.
  • #1
gracy
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Homework Statement


a metal rod of length "L",cross sectional area "A",young modulus "Y" and coefficient of linear expansion "α " is heated to "t" degree celsius .The work that can be performed by the rod when heated is

Homework Equations


work done by rod when heated=1/2 force exerted by rod(when heated) multiplied by extension
I know force exerted by rod(when heated)=Y α ∆t multiplied by A
(here ∆t is increase in temperature by due to heating)and extension would be final length -initial length let L' be final length.So extension would be L' - L
As L'=L(1 +α ∆t )
So L' - L=Lα ∆t

The Attempt at a Solution


with the help of equations above we can see
work done by rod when heated=1/2 Y α ∆t A multiplied by Lα ∆t
=1/2 YAL(α ∆t )^2
right?but in my book answer is given 1/2 YAL(αt)^2
which one is right?
 
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  • #2
It looks like the reference for the exercise writer is zero degrees celsius. You take a more general approach where the environment temperature can be 0 or 20 or whatever.
Apart from that I see no difference between your answer and the book answer ..

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Last edited:
  • #3
BvU said:
It looks like the reference for the exercise writer is zero degrees celsius.
if that's the case then
BvU said:
no difference between your answer and the book answer ..
but as we can see nothing such is mentioned in the question
 

What is work done by a rod when heated?

Work done by a rod when heated refers to the mechanical energy that is produced or expended when a rod undergoes a change in temperature. This can include the expansion or contraction of the rod, as well as any accompanying movements or forces.

How is work done by a rod when heated calculated?

The work done by a rod when heated can be calculated using the formula W = F * d, where W is the work done, F is the force applied, and d is the distance over which the force is applied. The force and distance can be determined by measuring the change in temperature and the resulting movement or expansion of the rod.

What factors affect the amount of work done by a rod when heated?

The amount of work done by a rod when heated is affected by several factors, including the material and composition of the rod, the initial and final temperatures, the amount of heat applied, and any external forces or constraints acting on the rod.

What are some real-world applications of understanding work done by a rod when heated?

Understanding work done by a rod when heated has various applications in different fields of science and engineering. For example, it is crucial in the design and construction of bridges, buildings, and other structures that are subject to temperature changes. It is also essential in the study of thermodynamics and heat transfer, as well as in the development of new materials and technologies.

How does work done by a rod when heated relate to the laws of thermodynamics?

The work done by a rod when heated is closely related to the first law of thermodynamics, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another. In the case of a rod being heated, the energy put into the system through heat is converted into mechanical energy, which can then be used to do work.

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