The importance of studying and applying practical classes on thermal expansion of solids for high school students

Abstract

In this work, we present the concept of thermal expansion of solids. A group of academics gathered to discuss the assembly of a class on this subject, aiming to develop an expository, dialogue, and experimental approach. The theoretical class took place at the School of Basic Education, taught by “Professor Maria Paula Feres”. It was delivered to the second year of high school during the evening period. The class covered the concepts of temperature, heat, and linear dilation. Following the theoretical class, the practical part was conducted in the laboratory of the teaching unit. A dilatometer and a vaporizer were used for this experiment. The students were given the task of dilating a tube made of iron, copper, and aluminum, and calculating the coefficient of expansion for each material. Due to time constraints, we decided to adjust the planned class and focus solely on the experimental part. The students were instructed to measure the bars before and after the dilation process, observing the time it took for each one to expand. They were also encouraged to discuss the reasons behind the observed phenomena. Despite the modifications to the original plan, the practical class proved to be of great value. The students were able to comprehend the process of linear dilation of solids and its relevance in our environment.

Keywords: temperature; heat; molecules; students; dimension; clearance.