What are two real life examples of expansion in solids?

Question

please help!

Wyatt Adkins · Accepted Answer

Water #-># ice

Water, being one of the only substances found here on Earth that can exist in the three natural states from normal pressure, freezes and boils at relatively normal/sustainable temperatures that can be achieved in a normal environment.

When water freezes, it's particles contract (when being frozen), and then slightly expand #-># this is one example.

However, when water is boiled, it's particles expand quickly depending on the temperature.

Diagram: Liquid molecular structure

Diagram: Ice molecular structure

Diagram: Gas molecular structure

Diagram: Various molecular states

All the best!

Xavier Avery · Answer

undefined Two real-life examples of expansion in solids are:

1. Thermal expansion of railway tracks: As the temperature increases, the metal rails of railway tracks expand due to thermal expansion. If proper allowances are not made for this expansion, it can lead to buckling or bending of the tracks.

2. Expansion joints in bridges: Bridges are often built with expansion joints to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the bridge structure due to temperature changes. These joints allow the bridge to expand and contract without causing damage to the structure.