Question

Describe an experiment to demonstrate the thermal expansion in solids.

Answer 1

Experiment:

1. Take a metal ball and ring set up. The diameter of the ball should be such that it just passes through the ring when both are at room temperature.​
2. Then heat the ball for some time over a burner and place it over the ring. Now the ball does not pass through the ring. This is because on heating, the ball expands and becomes bigger in diameter than ring.
3. Now allow the ball to cool by itself and place it over the ring. Now the ball passes through the ring. This is because on cooling, the ball contracts.