Many students explain thermal expansion in terms of increased size of ‘particles’
Energy and Thermal Physics
Misconception
Resources to Address This
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Model of expanding liquids and gases
View Resource
References
The following worksheets may help to identify whether students hold this particular misconception.
For more information, see the University of York BEST website.
- Lubben, F.; Netshisaulu, T. and Campbell, B. () Students' use of cultural metaphors and their scientific understandings related to heating, Science Education, 83, (6)
761-774.
- Jasien, P. G. () Roles of Terminology, Experience and Energy Concepts in Student Conceptions of Freezing and Boiling. Journal of Chemical Education, 90,
1609-1615.