Coefficient of volume expansion

Definition

The coefficient of volume expansion is a material-specific constant that quantifies the change in volume of a substance per unit change in temperature. It is typically denoted by $\beta$ and has units of $\text{K}^{-1}$.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The coefficient of volume expansion is crucial for understanding how materials respond to thermal changes, especially in engineering applications.
2. It can be calculated using the formula $\Delta V = \beta V_0 \Delta T$, where $\Delta V$ is the change in volume, $V_0$ is the initial volume, and $\Delta T$ is the change in temperature.
3. The value of $\beta$ varies significantly among different materials; liquids generally have higher coefficients than solids.
4. For most gases at constant pressure, the coefficient of volume expansion is approximately equal to the reciprocal of the absolute temperature ($\beta \approx 1/T$).
5. Understanding this coefficient helps predict and mitigate issues related to thermal stress and structural integrity.

Review Questions

• What does the coefficient of volume expansion quantify?
• How do you calculate the change in volume using the coefficient of volume expansion?
• Why do liquids generally have a higher coefficient of volume expansion compared to solids?

Related terms

Thermal Expansion: The tendency of matter to change its shape, area, and volume in response to a change in temperature.

Linear Expansion Coefficient: A material-specific constant that quantifies how much a material's length changes per degree change in temperature.

Kinetic Theory: A theory that describes gases as large numbers of small particles (atoms or molecules), all of which are in constant, random motion.