When objects slide or move on an inclined plane, the coefficient of friction plays a crucial role in determining the resistance to motion. The coefficient of friction is a measure of the interaction between two surfaces and determines the frictional force between them. In this blog post, we will explore how to find the coefficient of friction on an inclined plane.
We will cover the necessary tools and materials, the step-by-step procedure, and provide worked-out examples. We will also differentiate between the coefficients of static and kinetic friction on an inclined plane to gain a deeper understanding of their differences.
Determining the Coefficient of Friction on an Inclined Plane
Required Tools and Materials
Before we dive into the procedure, let’s gather the tools and materials we need. Here’s a list of what you’ll require: – Inclined plane – Object to slide – Protractor or angle measuring device – Weighing scale – Measuring tape or ruler
Step-by-step Procedure
Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step procedure to find the coefficient of friction on an inclined plane:
1. Set up the inclined plane at the desired angle of inclination. Make sure it is stable and secure.
2. Measure the angle of inclination using a protractor or angle measuring device. This angle will be denoted as θ.
3. Place the object on the inclined plane and adjust its position until it remains stationary without any external force acting on it.
4. Measure the weight of the object using a weighing scale. This weight will be denoted as W.
5. Calculate the normal force acting on the object, which is the component of the weight perpendicular to the inclined plane. The normal force (N) can be calculated using the formula N = W * cos(θ).
6. Gradually increase the inclination of the plane until the object starts sliding. Note down the angle of inclination at which the object begins to slide. This angle will be denoted as θs.
7. Measure the sliding distance of the object along the inclined plane.
8. Calculate the coefficient of static friction (μs) using the formula μs = tan(θs).
9. Calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) using the formula μk = tan(θ).
Worked-out Example
To illustrate the procedure, let’s consider an example:
1. The inclined plane has an angle of inclination (θ) of 30 degrees.
2. The object on the inclined plane has a weight (W) of 20 N.
3. The object begins to slide at an angle of inclination (θs) of 20 degrees.
4. The sliding distance of the object is measured to be 2 meters.
Using the given values, we can calculate the coefficients of static and kinetic friction: – Normal force (N) = W * cos(θ) = 20 N * cos(30 degrees) = 17.32 N – Coefficient of static friction (μs) = tan(θs) = tan(20 degrees) ≈ 0.364 – Coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) = tan(θ) = tan(30 degrees) ≈ 0.577
Therefore, the coefficient of static friction on the inclined plane is approximately 0.364, while the coefficient of kinetic friction is approximately 0.577.
Finding the Coefficient of Friction on an Inclined Plane without Mass
Theoretical Background
Now, let’s explore how to find the coefficient of friction on an inclined plane without knowing the mass of the object. This method utilizes the relationship between the angle of inclination and the coefficient of friction.
Detailed Procedure
Here’s a detailed procedure to find the coefficient of friction on an inclined plane without mass:
1. Set up the inclined plane at the desired angle of inclination and ensure its stability.
2. Measure the angle of inclination using a protractor or angle measuring device. Let’s denote this angle as θ.
3. Place the object on the inclined plane and adjust its position until it remains stationary without any external force acting on it.
4. Gradually increase the inclination of the plane until the object starts sliding. Note down the angle of inclination at which the object begins to slide. This angle will be denoted as θs.
5. Calculate the coefficient of static friction (μs) using the formula μs = tan(θs).
6. Calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) using the formula μk = tan(θ).
Practical Example
Let’s consider a practical example to understand this method better:
1. The inclined plane has an angle of inclination (θ) of 45 degrees.
2. The object begins to slide at an angle of inclination (θs) of 30 degrees.
Using the formulas mentioned above, we can calculate the coefficients of static and kinetic friction:
Hence, the coefficient of static friction on the inclined plane is approximately 0.577, and the coefficient of kinetic friction is approximately 1.
Differentiating Between Coefficient of Static and Kinetic Friction on an Inclined Plane
Defining Static and Kinetic Friction
Before understanding how to calculate each coefficient, let’s define static and kinetic friction.
– Static friction occurs when two surfaces are in contact but not sliding relative to each other. It prevents the object from moving until a certain force is applied.
– Kinetic friction, on the other hand, occurs when two surfaces are sliding relative to each other. It opposes the motion of the object.
How to Calculate Each Coefficient
To calculate the coefficient of static friction (μs) and the coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) on an inclined plane, we use the following formulas:
– Coefficient of static friction (μs) = tan(θs), where θs is the angle of inclination at which the object begins to slide.
– Coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) = tan(θ), where θ is the angle of inclination of the inclined plane.
Examples for Better Understanding
Let’s consider an example to differentiate between the coefficients of static and kinetic friction: – The inclined plane has an angle of inclination (θ) of 20 degrees. – The object begins to slide at an angle of inclination (θs) of 15 degrees.
Using the formulas mentioned earlier, we can calculate the coefficients of static and kinetic friction: – Coefficient of static friction (μs) = tan(θs) = tan(15 degrees) ≈ 0.268 – Coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) = tan(θ) = tan(20 degrees) ≈ 0.364
In this example, the coefficient of static friction is approximately 0.268, while the coefficient of kinetic friction is approximately 0.364.
By understanding the distinction between static and kinetic friction, we can better comprehend the nature of the forces at play on an inclined plane.
Numerical Problems on how to find coefficient of friction on an inclined plane
Problem 1
A block of mass 5 kg is placed on an inclined plane with an angle of 30 degrees. The block is on the verge of sliding down the plane, and the force required to just prevent the block from sliding is 30 N. Find the coefficient of friction between the block and the plane.
Solution:
Given:
Mass of the block, m = 5 kg
Angle of the inclined plane, θ = 30 degrees
Force required to prevent sliding, F = 30 N
The force required to prevent sliding can be calculated using the equation:
where g is the acceleration due to gravity and μ is the coefficient of friction.
Rearranging the equation to solve for μ:
Substituting the given values:
Simplifying the equation gives:
Therefore, the coefficient of friction between the block and the inclined plane is approximately 0.232.
Problem 2
A box of mass 10 kg slides down an inclined plane with a constant acceleration of 2 m/s². The angle of the inclined plane is 45 degrees. Calculate the coefficient of friction between the box and the plane.
Solution:
Given:
Mass of the box, m = 10 kg
Acceleration of the box, a = 2 m/s²
Angle of the inclined plane, θ = 45 degrees
The acceleration of the box can be related to the force of friction using the equation:
where g is the acceleration due to gravity and μ is the coefficient of friction.
Rearranging the equation to solve for μ:
Substituting the given values:
Simplifying the equation gives:
Therefore, the coefficient of friction between the box and the inclined plane is approximately 0.414.
Problem 3
A block of mass 2 kg is placed on an inclined plane with an angle of 60 degrees. The block is at rest and requires a force of 7 N to start sliding down the plane. Determine the coefficient of static friction between the block and the plane.
Solution:
Given:
Mass of the block, m = 2 kg
Angle of the inclined plane, θ = 60 degrees
Force required to start sliding, F = 7 N
The force required to start sliding can be calculated using the equation:
where g is the acceleration due to gravity and μ_s is the coefficient of static friction.
Rearranging the equation to solve for μ_s:
Substituting the given values:
Simplifying the equation gives:
Therefore, the coefficient of static friction between the block and the inclined plane is approximately 0.577.
The word ‘static’ represents the stable state of the system. All the objects tend to reach an equilibrium position of their rest.
Static equilibrium is a stable state of rest achieved by the system where the net force acting on the volume of the object is zero. Let us discuss some of the static equilibrium examples listed here below:-
Balanced Seesaw
If the weight of the person sitting on both sides matches then the seesaw will be balanced and will not oscillate up and down. In this condition, the forces imposed on the seesaw will be balanced and will reach a state of rest.
The seesaw will not move until at least one person among them leaves his seat or extra weight is added to any of the sides and the person applies some force to set the seesaw into motion.
A person standing on the Ground
A person standing stable on the ground will be in his state of rest until he decides to leave the space and move around. So, this is also an example of static equilibrium. Anytime we are standing or sitting at rest, our body attains the physical state of rest.
Ladder Inclined at a Fixed Angle
If the ladder is kept and maintained fixed at a particular angle placing an object at the edges touching the ground or screwing it to the ground with mechanical tools, the ladder will not slide down and remains at the same position making the same angle with a wall and the ground throughout.
A book kept on a table will remain at its state of rest until some external force is exerted on the book. Any object kept at rest will remain in the same position unless some external force is applied on the object or incident upon it by accident.
A pendulum hanging vertically with the support of a string will not move without exerting a force in the horizontal direction to the pendulum is incident on the pendulum.
Pendulum without oscillation; Image Credit: Pixabay
Till then, the pendulum is in a static equilibrium state with no net force acting on its body.
A lantern hanging in a hall with the help of a tight rope or a string is in a stable condition until its position is perturbed due to heavy wind blow. Though the tension is generated in a string on which the lantern is hanging, there is no tensional force exerted in the lantern, the net force on the lantern is zero unless felt some external force.
A Girl Sitting on a Swing
A girl sitting on a swing at rest and not in a motion, then the girl is in a state of static equilibrium state.
A girl sitting on a swing at rest; Image Credit: Pixabay
A girl sitting on a swing will not move unless she gives torque to a swing or a person standing at her backside applies a force to oscillate the swing.
A Car Parked on the Roadside
A car parked on a roadside is at rest and the net force acting on the car is zero. A car will not move until the driver gives the mechanical force through the engine or external force is incident upon the body of a car.
A ferries wheel without a passenger on it is in a stable position. The ferries wheel does not accelerate, hence no centripetal force, centrifugal force, or a force due to the weight of a people acts on the model of a ferries wheel.
It remains at a position of rest until some external force perturbs the state of the rest of the ferries wheel.
Table Fan
A table fan is at a unique position at all times until it is lifted and placed in some other place. The propellers of the fan too will be in a state of rest till the fan is turned ON. Until then, the table fan is at a static equilibrium position.
Portrays
The picture portray fixed on the wall is also a static equilibrium example. A portrait on a wall remains attached to the wall until it is moved from the place or the air restive force shakes the frame from the place.
A stone at the edge of rock will remain at the same location until exert some external pressure or drag force that will make a stone slide down from the edge of a rock.
Bottle Filled with Water
The molecular force between the water molecules is canceled out by the walls of the container and the upward pressure is balanced by the knob on the opening of the bottle. The water filled in a bottle is in a state of static equilibrium as the net force is zero, and it will remain in this state until some force is applied on the bottle that will shake the volume of the water in the bottle.
Pulley Without Weight
A pulley without any weight attached to it will exert no force over it and the net force due to the other small force acting on the pulley will be zero.
A pulley will remain at a state of rest until some weight is imposed on a pulley and set a pulley to accelerate in a centripetal motion.
Dice Fallen on Ground
Dice is a cubic shape, so once fallen on the ground it will attain the position of rest. It will remain fallen there until somebody lifts it or drag it to another place applying external force.
Static and kinetic friction are fundamental concepts in the field of physics, governing the motion of objects and the forces that act upon them. Understanding the nuances of these two types of friction is crucial for students studying mechanics, engineering, and related disciplines. This comprehensive guide will delve into the technical details, formulas, and practical applications of static and kinetic friction, providing a valuable resource for physics students.
Understanding Static Friction
Static friction is the force that opposes the relative motion between two surfaces in contact when they are at rest. This force arises due to the adhesive and interlocking forces between the microscopic irregularities on the surfaces. The coefficient of static friction, denoted as μ_s, is a dimensionless quantity that describes the magnitude of this force.
The maximum static friction force, F_s,max, can be calculated using the following formula:
F_s,max = μ_s * N
Where:
– F_s,max is the maximum static friction force (in Newtons)
– μ_s is the coefficient of static friction (dimensionless)
– N is the normal force acting on the object (in Newtons)
The coefficient of static friction can be determined experimentally by gradually increasing the applied force on an object until it just begins to move. The ratio of the maximum static friction force to the normal force is the coefficient of static friction.
Factors Affecting Static Friction
The coefficient of static friction can be influenced by several factors, including:
Surface Roughness: Rougher surfaces generally have a higher coefficient of static friction, as the microscopic irregularities on the surfaces create more interlocking and adhesive forces.
Surface Cleanliness: Contaminants or lubricants on the surfaces can reduce the coefficient of static friction by decreasing the adhesive forces between the surfaces.
Temperature: The coefficient of static friction may decrease at higher temperatures due to the increased thermal energy and reduced adhesion between the surfaces.
Normal Force: The coefficient of static friction is generally independent of the normal force, as long as the surfaces remain in contact.
Examples and Numerical Problems
Example 1: A 5 kg box is resting on a horizontal surface. The coefficient of static friction between the box and the surface is 0.4. Calculate the maximum static friction force acting on the box.
Given:
– Mass of the box, m = 5 kg
– Coefficient of static friction, μ_s = 0.4
– Normal force, N = m × g = 5 kg × 9.8 m/s^2 = 49 N
Calculation:
F_s,max = μ_s × N
F_s,max = 0.4 × 49 N = 19.6 N
Numerical Problem: A 10 kg object is placed on a horizontal surface. The coefficient of static friction between the object and the surface is 0.3. Determine the minimum force required to start the object moving.
Given:
– Mass of the object, m = 10 kg
– Coefficient of static friction, μ_s = 0.3
– Normal force, N = m × g = 10 kg × 9.8 m/s^2 = 98 N
Calculation:
F_s,max = μ_s × N
F_s,max = 0.3 × 98 N = 29.4 N
The minimum force required to start the object moving is 29.4 N.
Understanding Kinetic Friction
Kinetic friction, also known as dynamic friction, is the force that opposes the relative motion between two surfaces that are already in motion. This force is generally lower than the maximum static friction force and is more constant in nature. The coefficient of kinetic friction, denoted as μ_k, is a dimensionless quantity that describes the magnitude of this force.
The kinetic friction force, F_k, can be calculated using the following formula:
F_k = μ_k × N
Where:
– F_k is the kinetic friction force (in Newtons)
– μ_k is the coefficient of kinetic friction (dimensionless)
– N is the normal force acting on the object (in Newtons)
The coefficient of kinetic friction can be determined experimentally by measuring the force required to maintain a constant velocity of an object sliding on a surface.
Factors Affecting Kinetic Friction
The coefficient of kinetic friction can be influenced by several factors, including:
Surface Roughness: Rougher surfaces generally have a higher coefficient of kinetic friction, as the microscopic irregularities on the surfaces create more resistance to motion.
Surface Cleanliness: Contaminants or lubricants on the surfaces can reduce the coefficient of kinetic friction by decreasing the adhesive forces between the surfaces.
Temperature: The coefficient of kinetic friction may decrease at higher temperatures due to the increased thermal energy and reduced adhesion between the surfaces.
Sliding Velocity: The coefficient of kinetic friction may slightly decrease as the sliding velocity increases, due to the reduced time for adhesion to occur.
Examples and Numerical Problems
Example 2: A 2 kg object is sliding on a horizontal surface with a constant velocity. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the object and the surface is 0.25. Calculate the kinetic friction force acting on the object.
Given:
– Mass of the object, m = 2 kg
– Coefficient of kinetic friction, μ_k = 0.25
– Normal force, N = m × g = 2 kg × 9.8 m/s^2 = 19.6 N
Calculation:
F_k = μ_k × N
F_k = 0.25 × 19.6 N = 4.9 N
Numerical Problem: A 5 kg object is sliding on a horizontal surface with an initial velocity of 10 m/s. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the object and the surface is 0.3. Determine the distance the object travels before coming to a complete stop.
Given:
– Mass of the object, m = 5 kg
– Initial velocity, v_0 = 10 m/s
– Coefficient of kinetic friction, μ_k = 0.3
– Normal force, N = m × g = 5 kg × 9.8 m/s^2 = 49 N
Calculation:
F_k = μ_k × N
F_k = 0.3 × 49 N = 14.7 N
Using the kinematic equation:
v^2 = v_0^2 – 2 × a × d
0 = (10 m/s)^2 – 2 × (F_k / m) × d
d = v_0^2 / (2 × a)
d = (10 m/s)^2 / (2 × 14.7 N / 5 kg)
d = 50 m / 2.94 m/s^2
d = 17 m
The object will travel a distance of 17 meters before coming to a complete stop.
Comparison of Static and Kinetic Friction
The key differences between static and kinetic friction are:
Property
Static Friction
Kinetic Friction
Definition
Force that opposes the initiation of motion
Force that opposes the continued motion
Coefficient
Coefficient of static friction (μ_s)
Coefficient of kinetic friction (μ_k)
Magnitude
Generally higher than kinetic friction
Generally lower than static friction
Variability
Can vary depending on surface conditions
Relatively constant for a given pair of surfaces
Dependence on Normal Force
Generally independent of normal force
Directly proportional to normal force
Dependence on Sliding Velocity
Independent of sliding velocity
May slightly decrease with increasing velocity
It is important to note that in certain cases, the coefficient of static friction can be less than the coefficient of kinetic friction. This can occur when the surfaces are very smooth and have a low level of adhesion between them. In such situations, the force required to initiate motion may be less than the force required to maintain motion.
Practical Applications of Static and Kinetic Friction
Static and kinetic friction play a crucial role in various real-world applications, including:
Braking Systems: The coefficient of kinetic friction between the brake pads and the brake discs or drums determines the braking force and the stopping distance of a vehicle.
Traction and Locomotion: The coefficient of static friction between the tires and the road surface is essential for the traction and acceleration of vehicles, as well as the stability and control of the vehicle.
Mechanical Devices: Static and kinetic friction are important in the design and operation of mechanical devices, such as gears, bearings, and clutches, where they can affect the efficiency and performance of the system.
Climbing and Gripping: The coefficient of static friction between the soles of shoes and the surface being walked on determines the ability to climb and grip surfaces, which is important in activities like rock climbing and mountaineering.
Sliding and Pushing: The coefficient of kinetic friction between two surfaces determines the force required to slide or push an object across a surface, which is relevant in various industrial and everyday applications.
Understanding the principles of static and kinetic friction, as well as their practical applications, is essential for physics students to develop a comprehensive understanding of mechanics and its real-world implications.
Conclusion
Static and kinetic friction are fundamental concepts in physics that govern the motion of objects and the forces acting upon them. This comprehensive guide has provided a detailed exploration of these two types of friction, including their definitions, formulas, factors affecting them, and practical applications. By understanding the nuances of static and kinetic friction, physics students can better analyze and solve problems related to mechanics, engineering, and various other fields. The examples and numerical problems presented in this guide serve as valuable resources for students to apply the concepts and deepen their understanding of this crucial topic.
References
Serway, R. A., & Jewett, J. W. (2018). Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Halliday, D., Resnick, R., & Walker, J. (2013). Fundamentals of Physics (10th ed.). Wiley.
Giancoli, D. C. (2014). Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics (4th ed.). Pearson.
Tipler, P. A., & Mosca, G. (2008). Physics for Scientists and Engineers (6th ed.). W. H. Freeman.
Young, H. D., & Freedman, R. A. (2016). University Physics with Modern Physics (14th ed.). Pearson.
Dynamic equilibrium simple refers to the physical system moving with a constant uniform velocity where net force and torque acting on the system will be zero.
In our daily life, we encounter many systems moving with constant velocity. Such dynamic equilibrium examples are listed below.
A detailed explanation of dynamic equilibrium examples
Any physical system possessing dynamic equilibrium, the linear acceleration and the angular acceleration will be so that the net force acting on the system is zero, obeying Newton’s second law of motion. The detailed explanation above listed dynamic equilibrium is given in this section.
The raindrop reaches the earth from the cloud at a certain velocity. The speed of the raindrop increases while reaching the earth is only because of the acceleration due to gravity. Each drop of rain moves with the same velocity. Due to air resistance and friction, the increase in speed of the raindrop is balanced to achieve constant velocity. So that raindrop attains the equilibrium condition. Thus raindrops are considered as one of the dynamic equilibrium examples.
If you open any chilled soft drink bottle like coco-cola, the drink will rise up by making some hisss sound. This is because soft drinks consist of carbon dioxide in both aqueous and gas forms. Before opening the bottle, the gaseous carbon dioxide and the aqueous carbon dioxide are balanced by the dynamic equilibrium. As soon as the bottle seal opened, the gaseous carbon dioxide dissolved in liquid carbon dioxide and spilt out of the bottle with bubbles.
A fan rotating with constant velocity is one of the excellent dynamic equilibrium examples. When the fan is rotating with constant velocity, the angular acceleration and the torque acting on the fan are nullified, thus balanced by the dynamic equilibrium.
The dynamic equilibrium in some contests is also defined as the amount of substance entering the system must be equal to the amount of substance leaving the system. The water sink is one among such dynamic equilibrium examples. When you simply open the faucet, the water comes out, and it leaves through the drain. The amount of water coming out of the faucet and amount of water draining is equal, and it is proportional to the height of the water standing on the sink. The water stands in the sink until the amount of water entering the water become equal to the amount leaving through the drain. This situation seems static, but it is a dynamic equilibrium.
The aircraft flying in the sky is the best dynamic equilibrium example. The four forces balance the successful flying of aircraft; the first one is lift acting in the upward direction of the plane and the force of gravity acting downward, the thrust acting as a forward force, and the air drag is acting as the backward force. These four forces balance each other to set the equilibrium condition. Since the aircraft is under constant motion, thus the equilibrium is dynamic.
To weigh the things, we use a balance scale. This balance scale works only in equilibrium conditions. If you put an object at one of the platforms of the balance scale and you need to put the same amount of material on another platform of the scale to weigh correctly. When the weights at both platforms become equal, the scale achieves the dynamic equilibrium.
If you have ever been stuck in traffic, you would have felt the dynamic equilibrium. The vehicles in the traffic usually move with constant velocity. If the traffic is on the bridge or flyover, the number of the vehicle entering the bridge and living the bridge will be equal. Thus vehicles in the traffic are under dynamic equilibrium.
The static air is one of the best dynamic equilibrium examples. The static air causes each particle in the air to move with constant velocity; thus, the whole room will be under dynamic equilibrium as there is no flux in the room. The room will be in dynamic equilibrium with respect to the particle’s movement.
If you try to fill the water in a bucket having a hole, the bucket will be in dynamic equilibrium. As you fill the water, it will flow out of the bucket through the hole.
A diver jumped from the plane.
If a parachute driver just jumped out of the plane, he will be accelerated due to gravity. The two forces influence the diver; the force of gravity makes the diver accelerate downward while the airlift makes the diver move upward. Thus the diver achieves the constant velocity and hence sets the dynamic equilibrium examples.
Rotation of the second needle of the clock
The second needle in the clock rotates continuously. The continuous rotation of the second needles is the best dynamic equilibrium examples because the second needle moves with constant angular velocity; thus, the torque and the angular acceleration will be zero.
A Bowling ball is a game of rolling the ball on the ramp that hits the pin. The moving the balls are dynamic equilibrium examples because the ramp is frictionless, so the ball attains the constant velocity so that the net force will be zero as the acceleration is nullified.
When the coconut falls from the tree, the coconut’s velocity is due to gravity. When the coconut just begins to fall, the coconut will be under dynamic equilibrium. The coconut attains dynamic equilibrium because the two forces influence the coconut while falling. The upward force balances the downward force to acquire equilibrium conditions to zero net force.
Constructing bridges and buildings
The construction of hall buildings and the bridges are the best dynamic equilibrium examples as the engineers use the dynamic equilibrium condition in construction. While constructing, all the forces need to be balanced to keep the stead of the building. The structure of the building is balanced against the applied force; thus, dynamic equilibrium is exerted.
Conductivity is a physical property that measures the ability of a material to conduct electric current. It is an important characteristic that helps determine the suitability of a substance for various applications. Conductivity is influenced by factors such as the type of material, its structure, and the presence of impurities. Metals, for example, have high conductivity due to the presence of free electrons that can easily move and carry electric charge. On the other hand, insulators have low conductivity as they lack free electrons. Conductivity is commonly measured in siemens per meter (S/m) or mho per meter (℧/m). Understanding conductivity is crucial in fields like electrical engineering, materials science, and chemistry.
Key Takeaways
Material
Conductivity (S/m)
Copper
5.96 x 10^7
Aluminum
3.77 x 10^7
Silver
6.30 x 10^7
Iron
1.00 x 10^6
Glass
1.00 x 10^-14
Rubber
1.00 x 10^-20
Understanding Conductivity
Conductivity is an important concept in the field of material science. It refers to the ability of a material to conduct electricity or heat. In simpler terms, conductivity measures how easily a material allows the flow of electrical current or heat through it. It is considered a physical property because it describes the behavior of a material without undergoing any chemical changes.
Explanation of Conductivity
Conductivity can be observed in various states of matter, including solids, liquids, and gases. Let’s take a closer look at each of these:
Conductivity in Solids:
In metallic conductivity, metals are excellent conductors of electricity due to the presence of free electrons that can move easily through the material.
Non-metallic conductivity, on the other hand, occurs in materials like graphite or semiconductors, where the movement of charged particles (ions or electrons) allows for the flow of electricity.
Conductivity in Liquids:
In liquids, conductivity is primarily influenced by the presence of ions. Pure water, for example, has low electrical conductivity because it contains very few ions. However, when certain substances dissolve in water, they release ions and increase its conductivity.
Conductivity in Gases:
Gases generally have low conductivity due to the absence of free charged particles. However, when gases are ionized, such as in a plasma state, they can exhibit high conductivity.
How is Conductivity a Physical Property?
Conductivity is considered a physical property because it can be measured without altering the chemical composition of a material. It depends on various factors, including temperature, pressure, and the structure of the material itself.
Temperature and Conductivity: In general, conductivity increases with temperature. This is because higher temperatures provide more energy for charged particles to move, resulting in increased conductivity.
Pressure and Conductivity: Pressure can also affect conductivity, especially in gases. Increasing pressure can bring gas molecules closer together, increasing the likelihood of collisions and ionization, thus enhancing conductivity.
Conductivity and Material Structure: The arrangement of atoms or molecules in a material can impact its conductivity. For example, materials with a regular crystal lattice structure tend to have higher conductivity compared to those with an amorphous or disordered structure.
Insulators and Conductors: Materials with low conductivity are called insulators, while those with high conductivity are known as conductors. Insulators have tightly bound electrons that do not move easily, while conductors have loosely bound electrons that can move freely.
Semiconductors: Semiconductors are materials that have conductivity between that of insulators and conductors. Their conductivity can be controlled by factors such as temperature or the addition of impurities.
Superconductors: Superconductors are materials that exhibit zero electrical resistance at very low temperatures. They have the ability to conduct electricity without any loss of energy.
In summary, conductivity is a physical property that describes the ability of a material to conduct electricity or heat. It can vary depending on the state of matter, temperature, pressure, and the structure of the material. Understanding conductivity is crucial in various fields, including electrical engineering, materials science, and chemistry.
Types of Conductivity
Conductivity is an important concept in material science that refers to the ability of a substance to conduct various forms of energy or charge. There are different types of conductivity, including heat conductivity, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity. Let’s explore each of these types in more detail.
Heat Conductivity
Heat conductivity, also known as thermal conductivity, is the ability of a material to conduct heat. It is a physical property that determines how well a substance can transfer heat energy through conduction. In other words, it measures how easily heat can flow through a material. Heat conductivity is influenced by factors such as the material’s structure, temperature, and pressure.
Different materials have different heat conductivity values. Metals, for example, generally have high heat conductivity due to the presence of free electrons that can easily transfer heat energy. Non-metallic materials, on the other hand, have lower heat conductivity. Understanding heat conductivity is crucial in various applications, such as designing efficient heat exchangers or insulating materials.
Electrical Conductivity
Electrical conductivity refers to the ability of a material to conduct electric current. It is a measure of how easily electric charges can flow through a substance. Electrical conductivity is an intrinsic property of materials and is influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of impurities or defects.
Materials can be classified into three categories based on their electrical conductivity: conductors, insulators, and semiconductors. Conductors, such as metals, have high electrical conductivity and allow electric charges to flow freely. Insulators, on the other hand, have very low electrical conductivity and do not allow electric charges to move easily. Semiconductors have intermediate conductivity and can be controlled to exhibit both conducting and insulating properties.
Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity is a measure of a material’s ability to conduct heat. It quantifies how well a substance can transfer thermal energy through conduction. Thermal conductivity is influenced by factors such as the material’s composition, structure, temperature, and pressure.
Different materials have different thermal conductivity values. For example, metals generally have high thermal conductivity, making them efficient conductors of heat. On the other hand, materials like insulators have low thermal conductivity, which makes them good at resisting the flow of heat. Understanding thermal conductivity is important in various fields, including building insulation, electronics cooling, and energy-efficient design.
In summary, conductivity plays a crucial role in understanding the physical properties of materials. Heat conductivity, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity are all important aspects of material science. By studying and measuring conductivity, scientists and engineers can better understand how different materials behave and design more efficient systems and devices.
Conductivity in Different Contexts
Conductivity is an important physical property of materials that refers to their ability to conduct electricity or heat. It plays a crucial role in various fields of study, including material science and electrical engineering. In this article, we will explore conductivity in different contexts, focusing on conductivity in water, solutions, and metals.
Conductivity in Water
Water is a unique substance that exhibits both electrical and thermal conductivity. Its conductivity is primarily influenced by the presence of ions, which are electrically charged particles. Pure water, without any dissolved ions, is a poor conductor of electricity. However, when certain substances dissolve in water, they release ions that enhance its conductivity. The conductivity of water can be measured using a conductivity meter or probe, and it is often used as an indicator of water quality, salinity, or pH levels.
Conductivity in Solutions
Similar to water, the conductivity of solutions is also dependent on the presence of ions. When an ionic compound dissolves in a solvent, such as water, the ions separate and become mobile, allowing for the flow of electric current. The conductivity of a solution is influenced by factors such as the concentration of ions, temperature, and the nature of the solvent. Conductivity measurements in solutions are commonly used in various scientific and industrial applications, including chemical analysis and monitoring of electrolyte solutions.
Conductivity in Metals
Metals are known for their high electrical conductivity, making them excellent conductors of electricity. This is due to the presence of free electrons that can move easily through the metal lattice. The conductivity of metals is influenced by factors such as temperature, impurities, and the crystal structure of the material. Metals are widely used in electrical wiring, circuitry, and other applications that require efficient transmission of electrical signals.
In summary, conductivity is an intrinsic property of materials that manifests differently in various contexts. Whether it is conductivity in water, solutions, or metals, understanding the factors that affect conductivity is crucial for a wide range of scientific, industrial, and technological applications.
Factors Influencing Conductivity
Parameters Affecting Conductivity
When it comes to conductivity, there are several parameters that can influence this important property. Let’s take a closer look at some of these factors and how they impact conductivity.
Temperature: Temperature plays a significant role in conductivity. In general, as the temperature increases, the conductivity of a material also increases. This is because higher temperatures provide more energy for the movement of charged particles, such as electrons or ions, which are responsible for conducting electricity.
Pressure: Pressure can also affect conductivity, although its influence is not as pronounced as temperature. In some cases, increasing pressure can enhance conductivity by bringing particles closer together, facilitating the flow of charge. However, this effect is more noticeable in gases and liquids compared to solids.
Material Structure: The structure of a material can greatly impact its conductivity. For example, metals have a highly ordered structure with free electrons that can easily move and conduct electricity. On the other hand, non-metallic materials, such as insulators, have a more tightly bound structure that restricts the movement of charge.
Chemical Composition: The chemical composition of a substance can also affect its conductivity. Some materials, like pure water, are poor conductors of electricity due to the absence of free ions. However, when certain substances dissolve in water, they can increase its conductivity by providing ions that facilitate the flow of charge.
Physical Attributes of Matter Influencing Conductivity
Apart from the parameters mentioned above, the physical attributes of matter also play a crucial role in determining conductivity. Let’s explore some of these attributes:
Tortuosity: Tortuosity refers to the degree of complexity or irregularity in the path that charged particles must follow through a material. Materials with a higher tortuosity, such as rocks or soils, tend to have lower conductivity because the convoluted pathways hinder the flow of charge.
Fluid Conductivity: In fluids, such as water or other liquids, conductivity is influenced by factors like temperature, pressure, and the presence of dissolved ions. The conductivity of a fluid can be measured using a conductivity meter or probe, which provides a quantitative measure of its ability to conduct electricity.
Heat Conductivity: Heat conductivity, also known as thermal conductivity, is another important property that can influence electrical conductivity indirectly. Materials with high thermal conductivity, like metals, often exhibit good electrical conductivity as well. This is because the movement of heat and the movement of charge are closely related in many materials.
Material Type: Different types of materials exhibit varying levels of conductivity. Insulators, such as rubber or plastic, have very low conductivity and are used to prevent the flow of electricity. Semiconductors, like silicon, have intermediate conductivity and are essential for electronic devices. Superconductors, on the other hand, possess extremely high conductivity at very low temperatures.
Understanding the factors that influence conductivity is crucial in fields like material science and electrical engineering. By studying and manipulating these parameters and physical attributes, researchers can develop materials with specific conductivity properties for various applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is Conductivity a Physical Property of a Pure Substance?
Conductivity is considered a physical property of a pure substance because it is an intrinsic property that can be observed and measured without changing the chemical composition of the substance. In the context of materials science, conductivity refers to the ability of a substance to conduct electricity or heat. It is a characteristic that depends on the arrangement and behavior of the atoms, ions, or molecules within the substance.
Is Conductivity a Physical or Chemical Property?
Conductivity is a physical property of a substance. It is not a chemical property because it does not involve any changes in the chemical composition or identity of the substance. Instead, conductivity relates to the ability of a substance to conduct electricity or heat, which is determined by its physical structure and the movement of charged particles within it.
How Can We Tell Conductivity is a Physical Property?
Conductivity can be determined through various methods and measurements. The conductivity of a substance can be measured using instruments such as conductivity meters or probes. The measurement is typically expressed in units such as Siemens per meter (S/m) for electrical conductivity or Watts per meter per Kelvin (W/m·K) for thermal conductivity.
Factors such as temperature and pressure can affect conductivity. In general, conductivity tends to increase with higher temperatures and pressures, as these conditions promote greater movement of charged particles. However, the relationship between conductivity and temperature or pressure can vary depending on the specific substance and its molecular or atomic structure.
The conductivity of a substance is also influenced by its material structure. Materials with a high degree of electron mobility, such as metals, exhibit metallic conductivity. On the other hand, materials with limited electron mobility, such as non-metals, display non-metallic conductivity. Additionally, substances can exhibit different conductivity properties in different states, such as solids, liquids, or gases.
In summary, conductivity is a physical property of a pure substance that relates to its ability to conduct electricity or heat. It can be measured using various methods and is influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and material structure. By understanding conductivity as a physical property, scientists and engineers can better analyze and utilize different materials for various applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, conductivity is indeed a physical property. It refers to the ability of a substance to conduct electric current. This property is determined by the arrangement and movement of charged particles, such as electrons or ions, within the substance. Materials that are good conductors, like metals, have a high conductivity because their electrons are free to move and carry charge. On the other hand, insulators have low conductivity because their electrons are tightly bound and cannot move easily. Conductivity plays a crucial role in various fields, including electronics, energy transmission, and materials science. Understanding and manipulating conductivity is essential for developing new technologies and improving existing ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the definition of electrical conductivity?
A1: Electrical conductivity is a physical property of a material that describes its ability to conduct an electric current. It is measured in units of Siemens per meter (S/m).
Q2: Is conductivity a physical property?
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A2: Yes, conductivity is a physical property because it describes the ability of a substance to conduct heat or electricity without changing the substance’s chemical identity.
Q3: How does temperature affect conductivity?
A3: Temperature is a factor that significantly affects conductivity. For most materials, as temperature increases, electrical conductivity decreases due to increased resistance. However, in semiconductors, conductivity increases with temperature.
Q4: What is the difference between metallic and non-metallic conductivity?
A4:Metallic conductivity refers to the ability of metals to conduct electricity due to the presence of free electrons. Non-metallic conductivity, on the other hand, occurs in materials like semiconductors and insulators, where conductivity is generally lower and can change with factors like temperature and impurities.
Q5: How is conductivity measured?
A5: Conductivity is measured using a conductivity meter, which applies a voltage and measures the resulting current. The ratio of the current to the voltage gives the conductivity.
Q6: How does the structure of a material affect its conductivity?
A6: The structure of a material significantly affects its conductivity. For example, in metals, the presence of free-moving electrons allows for high conductivity. In contrast, in insulators, the absence of free electrons results in low conductivity.
Q7: What is the relationship between conductivity and salinity?
A7: In a solution, conductivity increases with salinity because the dissolved salts release ions, which can carry an electric current. Therefore, conductivity can be used to measure the salinity of a solution.
Q8: Is thermal conductivity a physical property?
A8: Yes, thermal conductivity is a physical property. It measures the ability of a substance to conduct heat. Different substances have different thermal conductivities.
Q9: How does pressure affect conductivity?
A9: Pressure can affect conductivity, especially in gases. Increasing pressure generally increases the density of the gas, which can increase the number of collisions between particles and therefore increase conductivity.
Q10: What is the difference between a conductor, a semiconductor, and a superconductor?
A10:A conductor is a material that allows free flow of electric current, usually metals. A semiconductor is a material whose conductivity lies between that of conductors and insulators and can be altered by temperature, voltage, or light. A superconductor is a material that can conduct electricity without resistance when cooled to a certain temperature.
This article discusses about example of reversible change. As the name suggests, reversible changes are those changes whose effect can be reversed.
Reversible means something that can be traced back to its original form. This article discusses about different types of changes that take place. Then we will discuss about reversible change in particular and then see different examples of reversible change.
A reversible change is that type of change which can be reversed. After a subject undergoes this type of change, it can attain its original form back.
Reversible change is also called as a physical change. This is mainly because physical changes can be reversed, chemical changes are hard to reverse. Hence the term physical change. We shall see more about types of changes and examples of reversible change in later sections of this article.
Types of changes
There are many types of changes taking place around us but they can be classified broadly into two types. These types are discussed below-
Reversible or physical change – This type of change is not permanent and the subject can be brought back to its original form once it undergoes a reversible change.
Irreversible or chemical change – This type of change is permanent and it is impossible to bring the subject back to its original form once it has undergone irreversible change.
Examples of reversible change
We can see innumerable examples of reversible changes happening around us. These examples are discussed in the section given below-
Melting of ice
Melting of ice is a reversible change as the melted ice can be converted back to ice by freezing it below zero degrees. We can do this as many times as we want as the water can be turned into liquid and then again be converted back to ice by freezing it.
Boiling of water
Boiling water is a reversible change as the boiled water gets converted to steam. This steam can be converted back to liquid water by condensing it. Condensation is the process of converting the steam back to liquid water.
When a remote falls, it is not going to be there forever. We can pick it up and put back to the original place. Hence it can be said that falling of a remote is a reversible change as the remote can attain its original place.
Folding a paper
Folding of paper is a reversible change as the paper can be unfolded to its original form. This can be done by simply folding the paper in an opposite direction.
Ironing of clothes
Ironing of clothes can be considered as a reversible change because the clothes can get crease again if we put them shabbily. Hence, we can attain the creases back making ironing process a reversible change.
Inflation of balloons
Inflating balloons is a reversible change This can be explained by the fact that the air can come out of same inlet from where we pumped the air inside the balloon. The balloon will attain its original shape back after getting deflated hence this is a reversible change.
Stretching of rubber band
A rubber band has potential energy stored in it. When it is stretched this potential energy gets stored inside the rubber band and when the force is released, this potential energy brings back the rubber band to its original shape. Hence this is a reversible change.
Compressing a spring
Compression of spring is similar to stretching of a rubber band. When the spring is compressed or stretched the potential energy gets stored inside the spring. As soon as the force is lifted the potential energy gets converted to kinetic energy and so the spring comes back to its original form. This makes compressing/stretching of a spring a reversible change.
Melting of wax
Melting wax is a reversible change as it gets frozen again to regain its original form.
Bending of aluminium pipe
Aluminium is a ductile material and hence an aluminium can be bent easily. This bent pipe when bent in oppsite direction leads the pipe to attain its original form. Hence we can say that bending an aluminium pipe is a reversible change.
Bending of copper wire
Bending of copper wire is a similar example as that of bending of aluminium pipe. We can attain the original shape of copper wire once it is bent. Hence we can say that bending of copper wire is a reversible change.
Heating of pan
Heating of pan is a reversible change as the pan can attain its original temperature once the source of heat is cut off. The pan comes to the ambient temperature when the heat source is cut off, hence we can say that heating of pan is a reversible change.
Heating of oil
Heating of pan and heating of oil are similar examples. Oil will attain room temperature once the heat source is cut off. This way it can be said that heating of oil is a reversible change.
Freezing water
Freezing of water can be considered as reversible change as the water can be brought back to liquid state just by keeping it outside the refrigerator for a while.
Defrosting of food
Defrosting means heating the frozen food so that the food becomes moist. This can be reversed by frosting the food again in the refrigerator. Hence this can be considered as reversible change.
Freezing of food
Freezing of food is considered as a reversible change as the food can be defrosted again as discussed above.
Spilling of water
When water is spilt on the floor, let us say from a container. We can simply use a dry cloth to absorb the water from the floor. Then squeeze the water out of the cloth into the container. This way the water gets back to the container in which it was lying originally. This makes spilling of water as a reversible change.
Bruises and cuts
Bruises and cuts are reversible as the skin gets healed by the white blood cells and makes the injury look like it was never there.
Wetting of clothes
When the clothes get wet, they are not going to be permanently wet as evaporation is going to take place. The clothes will be dried up soon. This way wetting of clothes becomes a reversible change.
Wetting of hair
Wetting of hair is a similar example as that to wetting of clothes. The hair can be dried up by using a hair dryer. This way wetting of hair becomes a reversible change.
This article discusses about example of pyramid. We all have a basic idea of what a pyramid is. When we hear the word pyramid, we promptly start thinking about Pyramids Of Giza.
Well, pyramids are more than just the structures at Giza. In general, pyramids are polyhedron formed by connecting a base polygon to a point or apex. Each base edge and the apex form a triangle. Hence, we relate pyramids to triangles. This article discusses about definition of pyramid and real life examples of pyramid.
As discussed in above section, pyramid is a polyhedron that is formed by connecting a base that is polygon shaped and a point that is called as apex.
Apex and every base edge forms a triangle. Hence a pyramid consists of multiple triangles. For a pyramid having a polygon base of n sides, there are n+1 faces and vertices and 2n edges. We shall discuss more about pyramids in further sections of this article.
Types of pyramids
There are many types of pyramids which can exist. Almost infinite number of pyramids. These types depend on the number of sides the base polygon has.
Only the most commonly seen pyramids are discussed in the section given below-
Triangular pyramid– When the base polygon is a triangle then it is said to be a triangular pyramid.
Square pyramid– When the base polygon is a square that means the length of each side of the base polygon is equal then the resulting pyramid is known as square pyramid.
Pentagonal pyramid– When the base polygon has five sides then the resulting pyramid is called as pentagonal pyramid.
Circular pyramid– When the base polygon is a circle, then the resulting pyramid is called as circular pyramid.
Example of pyramid
There are innumerable objects around us that are pyramids. Let us see some of the daily life examples of pyramids. They are given below-
Pastries and cake
When pastries and cakes are cut from centre and a piece is taken out, that piece resembles the shape of a pyramid. The cakes and pastries itself can be made in the shape of a pyramid.
Toys
Many toys such as a triangular rubix cube are in the shape of a pyramid. This type of rubix cube is made up of small triangles.
Monuments
Many monuments are made in the shape of pyramids. Such as the famous Pyramids Of Giza. These are the most common examples of pyramids. Infact we think of these Pyramids at Giza when we hear the term pyramid.
A tent is in the shape of a pyramid. A tent has a square base. The apex is connected with the edges of the base and forms triangles at the sides. Hence a tent can be considered as a pyramid.
Transmission lines tower
Transmission lines have a broad base that acts as the base polygon and narrow tip which acts as the apex of the pyramid. The transmission lines are situated at the apex of this pyramid. Hence, we can say the shape of transmission lines resemble a pyramid.
Buildings
Many buildings are made in such a way that they resemble a pyramid. These architecture ideas are taken from the ancient architecture. The best example of ancient architecture are the pyramids of Giza which have pyramid shape.
Temples
Many temples resemble the shape of a pyramid. They are broader at the base resembling the base polygon and has an apex point that connects directly to the base. Hence we can say that many temples have a shape of pyramid.
Water melon piece
When we cut a water melon from centre and remove a slice of it, we can say that the piece resembles a pyramid. This slice is nothing but a small pyramid.
Wet floor sign board
A wet floor sign board can be seen around corridors and halls where there is a chance of public slipping. These sign boards have a broad base and an apex connecting this base polygon. We can safely say that a wet floor sign board is an example of pyramid.
Outside line pyramids used in sports
In sports, small plastic pyramids are used to mark the corner point or outside line of the play area. This can be used as goal post also. These are examples of pyramids.
Chocolate
Chocolates can be moulded into many shapes and forms. Majorly, chocolates are square and circular. But we can see triangular chocolates in the market too. These triangular chocolates resemble the shape of a pyramid.
Paperweights
Most paper weight have the shape of a pyramid. They are mere show pieces made of glass which have small design structures inside them. These design structures carry most part of the weight of these paper weights. The paper weight used to put weight on the paper so that that do not fly away. These can be considered as pyramids.
Fancy water bottles
Some water bottles have a broad base resembling a base polygon and an apex that connects to this base. These type of water bottles have a shape of a pyramid.
Pillars
Pillars are mostly cylindrical or cuboidal but some places have pillars that have the shape of a pyramid. These pillars are broader at the base and narrower at the apex.
Buttons
In some shirts, we have designer buttons that have a shape of pyramid. These buttons will have a broader base and narrower apex that connects to the base polygon.
Mountains
Mountains are yet another common examples of pyramid. They have a very broad base and a narrow apex that connects to the base. Height of a mountain can reach upto 8000 mt on Earth!
Roof top
Some houses made up of wood have a pyramid shaped roof. This type of design is used in regions where snowfall is a problem. The triangular structure will help the snow to slide down easily which incase of flat roof would not have been possible.
Temple top (known as Shikhara)
Temple tops known as Shikhara have a shape of pyramid. They have a broad base and a narrow apex that connects the base and forms a pyramid.
Plant pot designs
Some pots have a design resembling to a pyramid. These pots have a broad base which make room for the soil and a narrow apex making way for the plant to grow.
Tis article discusses about example of prism. We will not be limiting our discussion to optical prisms only which are used to refract light, but in later sections we will also discuss about regular non optical prisms.
A phenomenon of light in which it changes its path of travel after passing through a medium of different refractive index. This phenomenon is called as refraction of light. A prism is one such example of medium which has a different refractive index than air and hence is used to change the direction of light.
A rectangular prism also called as cuboid is a geometrical structure defined by three quantites, that are- length, breadth and height.
The examples of rectangular prism are given below-
Book- A book has all the three– Height, length and breadth. Hence it can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Cupboard– A cupboard may have many shapes but cupboard having a rectangular cross section can be considered as rectangular prism. It has all the three- height, length and breadth.
Bottle of cuboidal shape– A cuboidal shaped bottle will have length, breadth and height with a rectangular cross section. Hence it can be said to be a rectangular prism.
Buildings– Buildings most commonly have a rectangular cross section and fulfil all the requirements of a rectangular prism.
Cuboidal bar– A cuboidal bar satisfies all the requirements of a rectangular prism that it has a rectangular cirss section, length, breadth and height.
Deck of cards– Deck of cards can be considered as a rectangular prism as it has all the properties of a rectangular prism. An individual card makes the depth of the deck.
Mobile phones– Usually the mobiles have a rectangular cross section. They can be considered as rectangular prism.
Water tank– A water tank usually has a rectangular cross section and can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Laptop– A laptop when in closed condition can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Canvas board– A canvas board has a rectangular cross section and satisfies all the requirements of a rectangular prism and hence it can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Living room– Living room or in that case any room can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Door– A rectangular door meets all the requirements of a rectangular prism and can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Bed– Usually the beds are cuboidal in shape. Cuboidal beds are considered as rectangular prism.
Mobile charger– A mobile chargers adaptor can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Blackboard– Blackboard has everything a rectangular prism needs that is length, breadth and depth. Hence it can be considered as a rectangular prism.
Containers– Rectangular containers can be considered as rectangular prism.
Examples of triangular prism
Triangular prism is that type of prism which has a triangular cross section. For a prismatic structure to be triangular, it should have atleast two triangular faces and three rectangular faces.
Tent– A camping tent is an example of triangular prism because it has two triangular faces and three rectangular faces.
A piece of pizza pie– A piece of pizza pie is nearly a triangular prism as it has a triangular cross section.
A piece of apple pie– Similar to pizza pie, a piece of apple pie also resembles a triangular prism.
A piece of water melon- When we cut a slice of watermelon from centre, then it resembles a triangular prism.
A piece of cake– A cake slice when cut from its centre resembles to a triangular prism.
A piece of cheese block– A cheese block when cut from its center resembles a triangular prism.
Optical prism– An optical prism is used to refract light. When it has a triangular cross section, it can be considered as a triangular prism.
A house shaped like triangular prism– Generally wooden houses have a triangular cross section. It can be considered as a triangular prism.
Example of pentagonal prism
A pentagonal prism is slightly different from a conventional prism. It has five sides at the top and bottom faces. A pentagonal prism can be said that it is an extruded version of a pentagon (Shape having five sides with equal interior angles)
The examples of pentagonal prism are given below-
Pentagon Headquarters at USA– The Pentagon HQ at USA is a builidng having five sides of equal length. This is a perfect example of pentagonal prism.
A pentagonal rubix cube- A rubix cube with five equal sides is a pentagonal prism.
A container having pentagonal cross section- A tiffin box or a container having a pentagonal cross section is considered as a pentagonal prism.
A pentagonal nut– A nut having five sides of equal length is considered as a pentagonal prism.
A gift box with five sides- A gift box having five sides of equal length is considered as pentagonal prism.
Optical prism with five sides– An optical prism is used to refract light, when the prism has five sides, it can be said to be a pentagonal prism.
Buildings with five sides– A building having five sides instead of four can be considered as a pentagonal prism.
Example of Hexagonal prism
Hexagonal prisms are similar to pentagonal prism with the only difference being the number of sides in the cross section. A hexagonal prism has six number of sides in its cross section.
The examples of hexagonal prism are given below-
Residential buildings having six sides- Residential buildings with six sides of equal length are considered as hexagonal prism.
A gift box having six sides- A gift box which has six sides will be considered as hexagonal prism.
A hexagonal nut– A nut usually has six sides of equal length. It can be said to be a hexagonal prism.
Honey comb structure– Honeycomb structure is made by stacking multiple hexagons together. These hexagons are nothing but small hexagonal prisms.
Trusses– A truss is a support structure made using cylindrical bars. When these trusses are arranged in a shape of hexagon, the structure can be said to be hexagonal prism.
Hexagonal optical prism- An optical prism is used for refracting light, when it has a hexagonal cross section then it can be said to be a hexagonal prism.
Wooden pencils– Wooden pencils have hexagonal cross section for a better grip. Hence penciles can be said to be hexagnal prism.
Example of Square prism
A square prism is similar to a rectangular prism. The primary difference between a sqaure prism and rectangular prism is that length of each side is same for a square prism.
The examples of square prism are given below-
Buildings with square cross sections– A building having a square cross section with same measurements of length breadth and depth can be said to be a building that is also a square prism.
An optical prism having four equal sides– An optical prism used for refracting light can be considered as a square prism if it has equal length breadth and depth.
A bottle with square cross section– A bottle with a square cross section and equal measurements of length breadth and height is considered as a square prism.
A cupboard with square cross section– A cupboard with square cross section and of same height as that of length and breadth is considered as a square prism.
A water bottle with square cross section– A water bottle having a square cross section and same height as that of length and breadth is considered as square prism.
A square tiffin box– A square tiffin box with same length breadth and height is considered as a sqaure prism.
Deodorant box– A compact deodorant box can be considered as a square prism if all the sides have equal lengths.
Cooler packaging– A cooler packaging box has equal lengths, it can be considered as a square prism.
Refrigerator packaging box– A double door refrigerator can be considered as a square prism as it has same measurement of length breadth and height.
A pen stand- A pen stand has same length breadth and depth. It can be considered as a square prism.
A square container– A square container has a square cross section and equal length breadth and height, hence it can be considered as a square prism.
What is refraction?
As discussed in above section, it is the phenomenon in which the direction of light is changed when passed from one media to another.
The change in direction occurs due to different refractive indices of the two mediums through which light is travelling. Fro example, when the light passes through a prism then the direction of travel changes and gets refracted. We shall study about refractive index in the later sections of this article.
What is refractive index?
Refractive index of a material is the measure of solute present in an aqueous solution. It is also a measure of how the light wll change its speed and direction after passing through a media with different refractive index.
The refractive index of vacuum is considered as 1. Glasses and other materials will have refractive indices more than one meaning that the speed of light will be lesser in those media than the speed of light in vacuum.
We are familiar with the magnets which attract ferromagnetic material such as iron; it is the basic property of magnetism. By this, you may have a question that is magnetism a physical property?
Magnetism is a material property due to the exertion of force on the other material to attract or repel them. Magnetism deals with the physical interaction of the material. So in this post, let us discuss is magnetism a physical property and how is magnetism a physical property in detail.
Before going to answer the above-mentioned question, is magnetism a physical property? Let us learn the origin of magnetism. Material is made of several individual small particles called an atom. Each and every atom in the material consists of electrons that partially carries the electric charges. The motion of these electric charges is responsible for a material possessing magnetism.
The exciting property of the magnet is attraction and repulsion. Every magnet has two poles, the south and the north pole. When two opposite poles of magnets come closer, they are attracted by one another meanwhile, and if two like poles of magnets comes closer, they repel each other.
Attracting the unlike poles and repelling the like poles does not make any difference in the composition. The two magnets are able to sustain their magnetism even if they repel by the like pole or if they may get attracted by the like pole. And there is no chemical reaction take place by the magnetic property of the material. Thus magnetism is purely a physical property of the material.
Not every object possesses magnetism. The material must be attracted by the magnetic field to possess magnetism. The ferromagnetic materials are largely influenced by the magnetic field. In the process of magnetization, the motion of the orbital electron acquires kinetic energy; thus, the electron is influenced by the magnetic field to achieve the magnetic property.
Every material possesses some physical property that describes the nature of that material differs from other materials. Magnetism is the unique property exerted due to electron motion.
Electric current and magnetic moments of a particle in the atom gives the magnetic field. The metals which are highly influenced by the magnetic field can undergo magnetization to become permanent magnets. These magnets attract the material of iron. Attracting an object does not cause a change in the composition of an object, and it does not involve any chemical reaction. Thus, magnetism describes the special nature of the substance.
The magnetic property of the material is mainly due to the alignment of the atoms and their electronic configuration. Being attracted by the magnets does not change the electronic configuration of the iron; this gives evidence for magnetism as a physical property.
When the iron is placed near the magnet which radiates the magnetic field lines to cause the orbital electrons of the iron piece to acquire kinetic energy by causing the motion of iron towards the magnet. In general, we say that magnet attracts iron.
Every magnet possesses two poles; the north pole and the south pole. It is impossible to achieve a magnetic monopole. Even if you break a magnetic into two pieces, you will end up with two poles again.
Electron in an atom possesses both spin up and spin down state, which is responsible for the magnetic property. They exert a force on the charged particle in the atom to spin. All the atoms must possess the same orientation.
The strength of the magnets can be varied by varying the distance. If the distance between the magnet and the iron piece is large, the iron piece is less attracted by the magnet.
Magnetism is highly influenced by physical factors such as temperature and pressure. By increasing the temperature, the thermal motion of the electron causes to change in the alignment of the material and for pressure it is vice-versa.
We can also achieve temporary magnetism by applying electric current or by pacing the soft metal near the magnetic field. The temporary magnets made by passing electric current is often known as electro-magnets.
Magnetic field in the electro-magnets. Image credits: Pixabay
Any property which does not affect chemical behaviour and describes the physical nature of the material is considered to be physical property.
Temporary magnetism is obtained by either passing the electric current or by placing it in a permanent magnetic field for a long time, which makes soft metal achieve temporary magnetism. Bypassing the electric current, spinning of the orbital electron takes place; this alters the only physical property of the atom, not chemical property such as pH composition. Thus temporary magnetism is also physical property.
Is change in magnetism a physical property?
Magnetism is also can be changed. The change in magnetism refers to variation in the amount of attraction and repulsion of the metal.
Varying the distance leads to a change in magnetism. Magnetism is more when the magnet and the metal are closer. The varying distance is a change in the physical entity. It has nothing to do with chemical behavior; thus, a change in magnetism is also a physical property.
Is magnetism an intensive property or extensive property?
Magnetism is an intensive property.
When an iron piece is attracted by a magnet, the magnetism is not focused on the size and shape of either iron or magnet. And also, magnetism is not fond of how much amount of metal is attracted towards the magnet. Even if you place a small pin near the magnet, it will attract the pin irrespective of size, shape, and amount.
On what factor does change in magnetism depends?
The magnetism mainly depends on the two factors, they are
Temperature –rise in the temperature causes thermal motion of the charged particle; hence regular alignment of the atomic system of magnetic material is disturbed.
Applied magnetic field strength –stronger the magnetic field strength, the greater will be the magnetization.
What are factors affecting the field strength of a magnet?
There are several factors that may affect the magnetic field strength as they are applied to the magnets; they are
Heat –for certain magnetic materials, heat causes them to lose magnetization.
The magnetic field strength is highly suffered by the radiation damage if a high energy beam strikes them.
The close contact with other magnets highly affects the field strength of the magnets.
The supply of strong electric current in proximity can damage the field strength.
The magnet can also get corrosion due to humidity, which affects the field strength.
What is the importance of physical property?
Physical properties always characterize the physical behavior and nature of the matter. It also describes the defined state of the matter.
Most necessarily, physical property is important to understand how to handle and store the material. In some cases, physical properties are helpful to know the occurrence of the chemical reaction. So physical properties also act as indicators of the chemical reaction.
This article intends to study that freezing point is a physical property of matter.
More straightforwardly, the freezing point of a liquid can be defined as a specific temperature at which the transformation of the substance from the liquid state to the solid state occurs. We can see that the process mentioned above is purely a physical change in the substance.
The following sections will acknowledge the detailed facts about whether the freezing point is a physical property.
Is freezing point a physical property?
The freezing point is counted under the category of physical property.
All the properties of matter are classified as either physical property or chemical property.As we already mentioned, the freezing point is connected to the physical aspects but not the material composition; so, it is a clear and cut physical property of the material.
Now, we shall discuss why the freezing point becomes the physical property.
The freezing point satisfies the primary criterion to be a physical property.
Due to the following aspects, the freezing point can be regarded as a physical property of matter, i.e.,
The number of particles that exist in the substance can be observed to control the freezing point of that substance.The freezing point and the process associated with it will never influence the material composition of the substance.The freezing point does not rely upon the type of the particles.
Next, let us focus on the change in a freezing point in the below section.
As the freezing point, change in a freezing point is also a physical property.
The change in freezing point is nothing but alteration of the temperature value at which the substance undergoes freezing; this is done by some physical processes such as changing the pressure. Thus, the Phenomenon is a material change in the substance, and hence it is a physical property.
How is a change in freezing point a physical property?
Since, throughout the processor changes, the same molecule is observed in the system, it is a physical property.
The reason that led to the classification of change in freezing point as physical property is explained elaborately below,The freezing point and change in freezing point can be observed and even measured without changing chemical composition of matter, but there is a physical transformation for sure.
A freezing point is also helpful in describing and identifying the matter.
Some basic facts regarding freezing (a physical property) are discussed below.
Is freezing point considered a colligative property?
As a physical property of matter, the freezing point is also a colligative property.
The dependence of freezing point on some parameters makes it a colligative property which is explained briefly as,Since, similar to the case of vapor pressure, osmotic pressure, boiling point elevation, the concentration of solute molecules or ions control the freezing point and its measurement.
It does not rely upon the identity and nature of the solute. The freezing point is regarded as a colligative property.
What do you mean by the freezing point depression?
The Phenomenon that deals with the change in the freezing point of the substance are freezing point depression.
The Phenomenon of freezing point depression can be defined as follows,The addition of solute to the solvent is proportional to the change in the freezing point. i.e., as you add the solute, the difference in freezing point increases accordingly.
Freezing point depression is due to the fact that the freezing point is a physical property and a colligative property and depends on the number of particles or the amount of solute present.
How can you define the freezing point, a physical property of a substance?
The freezing point represents a temperature value.
The freezing point of the substance can be defined as follows,At normal atmospheric pressure, the value of the temperature at which liquid transforms into solid is known to be the freezing point of a substance.
What conditions should a substance satisfy so that freezing can occur in it?
There are some conditions imposed on the matter if it has to undergo freezing.
For the freezing process to take place,
How do you explain the process of freezing?
A series of events occur inside the molecule in the Phenomenon of freezing.
When the substance cools down, the molecules start to slow down or settle down inside the material. Due to cooling, the molecules lack the energy to overcome the force of attraction, so they come closer and arrange themselves in certain fixed positions. During these events, the liquid molecules are transformed into solid crystals.
Also, a constant temperature is observed throughout the freezing process in the substance.
What do you mean by supercooled liquids?
These are unique kinds of liquids known to us.
These liquids have some unique characteristics and undergo an unusual process, i.e.,supercool liquids are substances that can stay in solid-state and still cool down even after reaching the freezing point. They also have a peculiar quality of crystal formation. They can go further down after their freezing point is reached with retaining the original state.
Glass is one of the best examples of supercooled liquids as it is an amorphous solid.
Is it true that different liquids can have different freezing points?
Yes, experimentally, we can observe that different liquids contain different freezing points.
There exists a deciding factor that confirms different freezing points for different liquids. The factor that decides the freezing points of the liquids is the intermolecular force of attraction present inside the substance.
Based on the study of nature, all the substances around us are expected to have the same value of the freezing point. But there occurs a deviation in this theory.
Do the melting point and freezing points have identical values?
The freezing point indeed is the same as that of the melting point.
The freezing point and melting point for a given substance have similar values because, in both the process, i.e., melting and freezing, the state change corresponds to the same states known as solid and liquid. One can see that melting and freezing are reverses of each other.
Corresponding to the two different conversions of states of matter, the melting and freezing point of the substance are named accordingly.
