Expansion and Contraction

Front

What is expansion in terms of temperature?

Back

Expansion is the process where materials increase in size or volume when heated.

Front

What is contraction in terms of temperature?

Back

Contraction is the process where materials decrease in size or volume when cooled.

Front

Why do bridges have gaps between metal connectors?

Back

To allow the bridge to expand when the temperature of the surrounding increases.

Front

True or False: The gaps between the connectors on a railway track allow the track to expand when the temperature decreases.

Back

False.

Front

What happens to an iron ball when it is heated?

Back

The iron ball expands when gaining heat.

Front

Why are electric cables hung loosely between poles?

Back

To allow the wires to contract when the temperature decreases.

Front

What happens to the level of colored water when heated?

Back

The level of colored water rises after being put in hot water.

Front

What is thermal expansion?

Back

Thermal expansion is the increase in volume of a substance due to an increase in temperature.

Front

What is thermal contraction?

Back

Thermal contraction is the decrease in volume of a substance due to a decrease in temperature.

Front

Give an example of a material that expands when heated.

Back

Metals, such as iron and aluminum, expand when heated.