Which Of The Following Is Not An Intensive Physical Property

Which of the Following is NOT an Intensive Physical Property? Understanding Intensive vs. Extensive Properties

This article will delve into the fascinating world of physical properties, specifically differentiating between intensive and extensive properties. We'll explore what defines each type and, most importantly, identify which of a given set of properties is not intensive. Understanding this distinction is crucial in various scientific fields, from chemistry and physics to materials science and engineering.

What are Intensive and Extensive Properties?

Physical properties describe the characteristics of matter that can be observed or measured without changing its chemical composition. These properties are broadly categorized into two groups:

• Intensive Properties: These properties are independent of the amount of matter present. They remain constant regardless of whether you have a small sample or a large quantity. Examples include temperature, density, melting point, boiling point, and refractive index.

• Extensive Properties: These properties depend on the amount of matter present. If you increase the amount of substance, the extensive property also increases proportionally. Examples include mass, volume, length, and heat capacity.

Identifying the Non-Intensive Property

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario where you're asked to identify the non-intensive property from a list. To effectively solve this, remember the defining characteristic: an intensive property remains unchanged regardless of sample size. Any property that changes with the amount of substance is extensive.

Example:

Let's say you're presented with the following list:

• Density
• Volume
• Boiling point
• Mass

Which of these is NOT an intensive property?

The answer is Volume, Mass. Both volume and mass are extensive properties because they directly scale with the amount of substance. If you double the amount of a substance, its mass and volume will also double. Density, boiling point, remain constant irrespective of the amount of substance.

Further Clarification and Examples

To solidify your understanding, let's look at a few more examples:

• Intensive Properties:

  • Color: A single drop of red dye has the same color as a large container of the same dye.
  • Hardness: A small diamond fragment exhibits the same hardness as a large diamond.
  • Conductivity: The electrical conductivity of a copper wire doesn't change based on its length (within reasonable limits).

• Extensive Properties:

  • Weight: A heavier object has a greater weight.
  • Energy: A larger system possesses more energy.
  • Length: A longer rope has a greater length.

Conclusion

Distinguishing between intensive and extensive properties is fundamental to understanding the behavior of matter. By remembering the core difference—intensive properties are independent of the amount of substance, while extensive properties are dependent—you can easily identify which property does not fit the intensive property criteria. This understanding is not only valuable for academic pursuits but also for practical applications in various scientific and engineering fields. Mastering this concept will enhance your problem-solving skills and provide a solid foundation for more advanced studies in physical science.