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🔋college physics i – introduction review

Thermal expansion

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Thermal expansion is the increase in volume of a substance due to an increase in temperature. This occurs because particles move more and take up more space as they absorb heat.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Thermal expansion can be quantified using the coefficient of thermal expansion, which varies for different materials.
  2. Linear expansion is relevant for one-dimensional objects like rods and wires, while volumetric expansion applies to three-dimensional objects.
  3. The formula for linear expansion is $\Delta L = \alpha L_0 \Delta T$, where $\alpha$ is the coefficient of linear expansion, $L_0$ is the original length, and $\Delta T$ is the change in temperature.
  4. For volumetric expansion, the formula is $\Delta V = \beta V_0 \Delta T$, where $\beta$ is the coefficient of volumetric expansion and typically $\beta = 3\alpha$ for isotropic materials.
  5. Different states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) exhibit different levels of thermal expansion; gases generally expand more than liquids and solids.

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