There are two different categories into which the physical properties of matter can be classified, namely intensive and extensive properties. These terms were introduced in 1917 by Richard C Tolman. Also, it can be noted that the ratio of any two extensive properties of the same system or object will yield an intensive property.
For Example: the ratio of mass and volume is equal to the density.
Mass/Volume = Density
Mass and volume are extensive properties, whereas density is an intensive property.
Intensive Properties
Intensive properties are independent of the amount of substance present. Or they are bulk properties. Characteristic doesn’t change. The size of intensive properties does not change. Density, temperature, pressure, etc., are some examples of intensive properties.
Extensive Properties
Extensive properties are dependent on the amount of substance present. They can easily be identified. Size of Extensive properties changes. It can be computed. Volume, size, mass, length, and weight are some examples of extensive properties.
To make you understand how intensive and extensive properties are different from each other, here are some major differences between intensive and extensive properties:
| Difference between Intensive and Extensive properties | |
|---|---|
| INTENSIVE | EXTENSIVE |
| Independent property | Dependent property |
| Size does not change | Size changes |
| It cannot be computed | It can be computed |
| Can be easily identified | Cannot be easily identified |
| Example: melting point, colour, ductility, conductivity, pressure, boiling point, lustre, freezing point, odour, density, etc | Example: length, mass, weight, volume |
These were some important differences between extensive and intensive properties. To know differences between other topics in chemistry you can register to BYJU’S or download our app for simple and interesting content. Find notes, and question papers for other subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Biology and various competitive exams as well. Enjoy learning with a great experience.
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| Characteristics of matter |
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Which is an intensive property?
The intensive property is a product property that does not change as the number of matter increases. It is a bulk property, meaning that it is a physical property that does not depend on a sample’s size or weight.
Why are intensive and extensive properties important?
Mass and weight, for example, are extensive properties, but their ratio (density) is an intensive product property. Although extensive properties are good for describing a sample, they are not very helpful in classifying it as they may change depending on sample size or conditions.
What are the intensive and extensive properties in thermodynamics?
The concentrated property is independent of the mass amount. The value of a large property varies with the volume directly. Examples of intensive properties are temperature, pressure, total volume, and density.
What is an extensive property in thermodynamics?
There are two different categories of thermodynamic properties: intensive properties and extensive properties. An extensive property is any property depending on the size (or extent) of the system being considered. Volume is a case in point.
What is meant by extensive property?
A large property is a material property that varies as the number of matter increases. Like other physical properties, without any chemical alteration (reaction) occurring, an extensive property can be detected and measured.
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