Physics 5054 · O Level · Thermal expansion of solids, liquids and gases

Thermal expansion of solids, liquids and gases — practice question

Fig. 3.1 shows a copper kettle with a cylindrical shape holding cold water. It is used to warm the water, and an electric heater is fitted at the bottom.
(a)[2]

State and explain why it is advantageous to heat the water from below.

(b(i))[2]

Explain, in terms of molecules, why water expands on heating.

(b(ii))[1]

Copper also expands on heating. State what happens to level X of the water in the kettle. Explain your answer in terms of how the copper expands and how the water expands.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 5-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Water is heated evenly / becomes mixed / spreads heat

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