Coefficient of volume expansion
Definition
The coefficient of volume expansion is a material-specific constant that quantifies the fractional change in volume per degree change in temperature. It is typically denoted by $\beta$ and measured in $\text{K}^{-1}$.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- The coefficient of volume expansion is crucial for understanding how materials behave when heated or cooled.
- It applies to fluids and solids, but it is particularly significant for liquids and gases.
- The mathematical expression for volume expansion is $\Delta V = \beta V_0 \Delta T$, where \(V_0\) is the initial volume.
- Different materials have different coefficients of volume expansion, which must be considered in engineering applications.
- It can be derived from the linear expansion coefficient for isotropic materials using the relation $\beta = 3\alpha$.
Review Questions
- What does the coefficient of volume expansion measure?
- How do you mathematically express the relationship between volume change and temperature?
- Why is it important to consider the coefficient of volume expansion in material design?
"Coefficient of volume expansion" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Related terms
Thermal Expansion: The tendency of matter to change its shape, area, and volume in response to a change in temperature.
Coefficient of Linear Expansion: A material-specific constant that quantifies the fractional change in length per degree change in temperature, denoted by $\alpha$.
$\Delta T$: $\Delta T$ represents the change in temperature and is a critical variable when calculating thermal expansion.
