Physics 103A Lab D - lab D:Linear Expansion coefficient...

lab D :Linear Expansion coefficient INTRODUCTION
Linear dimensions (e.g. length, diameter) for most substances increase as the temperature increases in a range
that does not produce a change of phase. The added heat increases the vibration kinetic energy of the atoms in the
material, which in turn increases the distance between the atoms. To a first approximation, the increase in a linear
dimension L
0
L/L ⍙
0 =
⍺ T ⍙
where the proportionality is called the coefficient of linear expansion. This coefficient depends on many factors,
such as the composition and purity of the material, temperature, etc.
Objective:
The main objective of this lab was to measure the coefficient of linear expansion for different metal rods.
THEORY:
In the lab the following equation was used to calculate the coefficient of linear expansion.
EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:
1. Measure the initial length ( ) of the experimental rod to the nearest and the material of the rod.