KVPY2014PhysicsThermal Properties of Matter
A solid expands upon heating because :
Options
- Athe potential energy of interaction between atoms in the solid is asymmetric about the equilbrium positions of
- Bthe frequency of vibration of the atoms increases
- Cthe heating generates a thermal gradient between opposite sides
- Da fluid called the caloric flows into the interatomic spacing of the solid during heating thereby expanding it
Correct answer
A. the potential energy of interaction between atoms in the solid is asymmetric about the equilbrium positions of
Step-by-step solution
As the potential energy is asymmetric about the equilibrium position of the atoms, as the temperature increases, the average separation between the atoms (green dots) increases. Thus, the solids expand on heating.