How Does Temperature Affect Metal Objects?

Question 1

What is the general effect of temperature on metal objects?

A. Metals expand when heated and contract when cooled

B. Metals stay the same size regardless of temperature changes

C. Metals shrink when heated and expand when cooled

D. Metals change color when exposed to high temperatures

Answer:

A. Metals expand when heated and contract when cooled

Metal objects generally expand when heated and contract when cooled due to the movement of atoms within the metal. When heat is applied to a metal object, the atoms vibrate faster and move further apart, leading to expansion. On the other hand, when the metal is cooled, the atoms slow down and move closer together, causing contraction.

This property of metals expanding and contracting with temperature changes is often utilized in various applications, such as in thermostats, bridges, and pipelines.