Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Why don't particles vibrate upon cooling?

All substances are composed of atoms that are in constant motion. When a substance is heated, the constituent atoms gain kinetic energy and are able to vibrate faster. This causes an increase in the inter-atomic spacing of these atoms. What this means is that on heating, substances expand to some extent. This is exactly what we observe when we melt a solid or vaporize a liquid. 


When a substance cools, the exact opposite phenomenon is observed. The atoms lose kinetic energy when cooled and hence vibrate slowly. This causes a decrease in inter-atomic spacing and hence materials contract when cooled. This is what is observed when we cool a liquid and solidify it. Thus, the vibration of atoms is a function of whether the heat is added to or removed from the substance. 


Whether heating or cooling, the total mass of the substance remains the same. 


Hope this helps. 

No comments:

Post a Comment

How does the choice of details set the tone of the sermon?

Edwards is remembered for his choice of details, particularly in this classic sermon. His goal was not to tell people about his beliefs; he ...