Thermal expansion and contraction

Front

What is temperature?

Back

Temperature is related to the average kinetic energy of the particles in an object due to their random motions through space.

Front

What happens to the liquid in a thermometer when it is placed in hot water?

Back

The liquid gains heat from the hot water and expands.

Front

What is thermal contraction?

Back

A decrease in a material's volume when its temperature decreases.

Front

What happens to objects when they gain heat?

Back

Objects expand.

Front

What happens to the distance between molecules when temperature increases?

Back

The distance between molecules increases.

Front

What is thermal expansion?

Back

The increase in volume of a material when its temperature increases.

Front

What is an example of thermal expansion in everyday life?

Back

Metal railway tracks expand in the heat of summer.

Front

What is the effect of cooling on the volume of gases?

Back

Gases contract when cooled.

Front

What is the principle behind thermometers?

Back

Thermometers work on the principle of thermal expansion of liquids.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and kinetic energy?

Back

As temperature increases, the average kinetic energy of particles increases.