Physics and materials engineering · Thermal physics
Linear thermal expansion
Estimate a material’s length change from its expansion coefficient and temperature change.
Method and scope
ΔL = αL₀ΔT.
Use linear thermal expansion for educational calculation or a clearly scoped arithmetic estimate. Intended for Learners, General educational use.
Inputs- Initial length — m, mm, cm, ft
- Linear expansion coefficient — 1/K
- Temperature increase — ΔK, Δ°C, Δ°F
SOURCE AND LIMITS
Assumptions: The coefficient of linear expansion is constant over the temperature interval. Expansion is small enough for the linear model.
Limitations: Real coefficients depend on material, temperature, direction, and product condition.
Method version 1.0.0 · Unit registry and result provenance are shown after calculation. This tool is limited to the documented scope.Explore related fields
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