The bridges often have expansion joints to account for the changes in size due to temperature changes. Suppose a bridge is supported by steel girders; the central span has a girder that is 32 m long. If the girder warms from 0∘C to 32 ∘C, by how much does its length increase?

Question

Physics

Cullen Bishop

12 November, 12:00

The bridges often have expansion joints to account for the changes in size due to temperature changes. Suppose a bridge is supported by steel girders; the central span has a girder that is 32 m long. If the girder warms from 0∘C to 32 ∘C, by how much does its length increase?

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Answers (1)

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Julia Thomas · Answer 1

1.33 cm

Explanation:

L = 32 m, T 1 = 0 degree C, T2 = 32 degree C

Thermal expansion coefficient of steel, α = 13 x 106-6 per degree C

Let ΔL be the increase in length.

ΔL = L x α x ΔT

ΔL = 32 x 13 x 10^-6 (32 - 0)

ΔL = 0.0133 m = 1.33 cm