Instrument for Studying Linear Thermal Expansion of Metals

Instrument for Studying Linear Thermal Expansion of Metals

The instrument for demonstration and study of the degree of linear thermal expansion of metals (alloys) is shown by the included rods: aluminum, brass, and steel (each rod about 25 cm long). A metal trough is filled with an alcohol-based fuel (for example, denatured alcohol or ethanol) and ignited. The rods are placed sequentially into the guide and heated; they expand linearly in accordance with the linear expansion coefficient of the respective metal/alloy. As they expand, they deflect a pointer that moves on a scale, indicating the expansion value for the given metal/alloy. Base dimensions: 30 x 12.5 cm; height of the apparatus: 24 cm; length of each rod: 25 cm.