Explain in terms of the kinetic intermolecular theory of matter the need for gaps in railway lines
According to the kinetic molecular theory, all particles in a substance are in constant motion. In the case of a railway line, trains travel along the tracks at high speeds. Without gaps in the tracks, there would be no room for expansion of the tracks due to the heat generated by the friction between the train wheels and the tracks.
As the train passes over the tracks, the friction causes the tracks to heat up and expand. If there were no gaps, the tracks would expand without any space to do so, leading to the risk of the tracks bending or warping. By having gaps in the railway lines, the tracks are able to expand and contract freely without causing any damage, allowing for a smoother and safer journey for the trains.
Therefore, the need for gaps in railway lines is crucial to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the tracks due to the constant motion and heat generated by the trains.