Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Density
Density is defined as mass per unit volume and is a crucial property of materials. In this context, the density of mercury at different temperatures is essential for calculating how much volume the mercury occupies when heated. The formula for density is ρ = m/V, where ρ is density, m is mass, and V is volume. Understanding how density changes with temperature helps predict the behavior of substances in response to thermal expansion.
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Thermal Expansion
Thermal expansion refers to the increase in volume of a substance as its temperature rises. In the case of mercury in a thermometer, as the temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the mercury atoms increases, causing them to occupy more space. This principle is fundamental to the operation of thermometers, as it allows the liquid to rise in the capillary tube, providing a visual indication of temperature changes.
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Capillary Action
Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces, due to intermolecular forces. In a thermometer, the narrow capillary tube allows mercury to rise as it expands with heat. This phenomenon is influenced by the adhesive forces between the liquid and the walls of the tube, as well as the cohesive forces within the liquid itself, making it essential for understanding how the mercury moves in response to temperature changes.
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Intermolecular vs Intramolecular Example