what are two examples of thermal expansion? What is happening to the particles in each case?
Two examples of thermal expansion are:
1. Expansion of solid objects: When solid objects, such as metals or glass, are heated, they expand due to the increase in temperature. This expansion occurs because the particles that make up the solid gain energy and vibrate more vigorously, creating more space between them. As a result, the overall volume of the object increases.
2. Expansion of liquids: Similar to solids, liquids also experience expansion when heated. As the temperature of a liquid increases, its particles gain energy and move more rapidly. This increased motion causes the liquid to expand, leading to an increase in volume. Water is a common example of a liquid that expands when heated.
In both cases, the particles within the substance gain kinetic energy with increased temperature. This increase in kinetic energy causes them to move more vigorously, occupying a larger amount of space and causing the expansion of the material.