Thermal Expansion: Phenomena and Effects

This lecture covers the concept of thermal expansion, focusing on the asymmetry in the potential interaction between atoms leading to non-symmetric vibrations. It explains the linear thermal expansion coefficient, the effects of temperature changes on materials, and the implications of thermal expansion on solids, including mechanical stresses. Practical consequences such as joint materials selection and thermal fatigue are discussed. The lecture also delves into the influence of temperature on material properties, including density, mechanical properties, and electrical resistivity. Additionally, it explores heat capacity, specific heat, and thermal diffusion mechanisms.