Match each mechanical procedure involving a change in temperature to the physical result it produces.
- Heating a metal nut stuck on a boltCauses thermal expansion, increasing the inner diameter and loosening the grip.
- Chilling a steel bearing before pressing it into a housingCauses thermal contraction, slightly reducing the outer diameter for an easier fit.
- Exposing a closed cylinder filled with hydraulic fluid to high heatCauses thermal expansion, raising the internal pressure against the container walls.
Answer
Heating the nut causes expansion that increases its inner diameter; chilling the bearing causes contraction that reduces its outer diameter; heating the closed cylinder causes fluid expansion that increases internal pressure.
Each mechanical action correctly pairs with its fundamental thermal behavior: adding heat causes expansion (increasing size or pressure), while removing heat causes contraction (decreasing size).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Thermal expansion causes materials to increase in size when heated, while thermal contraction causes them to decrease in size when cooled. This principle affects solids and liquids across various mechanical systems.