Solution
Related Formula
Δ l = l₀ α Δ T lfinal = l₁ + l₂ + Δ l₁ + Δ l₂Core Logic
Let the original lengths be l0A (aluminium) and l0S (steel). They have same length, so l0A = l0S = 60 cm. Change in temperature Δ T = 100°C - 30°C = 70°C.
Expansion of Aluminium: Δ lA = l₀ αA Δ T Expansion of Steel: Δ lS = l₀ αS Δ T
Step 1: Calculate Final Length
lfinal = l₀(1 + αA Δ T) + l₀(1 + αS Δ T) lfinal = l₀ [2 + (αA + αS)Δ T] lfinal = 60 [ 2 + (24 × 10⁻⁶ + 12 × 10⁻⁶) × 70 ] lfinal = 60 [ 2 + (36 × 10⁻⁶) × 70 ] lfinal = 60 [2 + 0.00252] = 120 + 60(0.00252) = 120 + 0.1512 = 120.15 cmPattern Recognition
For composite rods connected end-to-end, expansions simply add up. Convert 1.2 × 10⁻⁵ to 12 × 10⁻⁶ immediately for easy mental addition.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Physics: Thermal Properties of Matter