Which One Of The Following Is An Intensive Property

Which One of the Following is an Intensive Property? Understanding Intensive vs. Extensive Properties

This article will explore the difference between intensive and extensive properties, ultimately answering the question: which of a given set is an intensive property? Understanding this distinction is crucial in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and engineering. We'll define intensive and extensive properties, provide examples, and show you how to identify them.

What are Intensive and Extensive Properties?

A property of matter is simply a characteristic that can be used to describe or identify a substance. These properties can be categorized into two groups: intensive and extensive. The key difference lies in their dependence on the amount of matter present.

• Intensive Properties: These properties are independent of the amount of substance. They remain the same regardless of the size of the sample. Think of them as inherent qualities of the material itself.

• Extensive Properties: These properties are dependent on the amount of substance. They change proportionally with the size or mass of the sample.

Examples to Illustrate the Difference:

Let's look at some common examples to clarify the distinction:

Identifying Intensive Properties: A Practical Approach

To determine if a property is intensive, ask yourself: Does the property change if I take a smaller sample of the substance? If the answer is no, then it's an intensive property.

For example, the density of water remains approximately 1 g/mL whether you have a drop or a liter. However, the mass and volume (extensive properties) will change drastically.

Commonly Confused Properties:

It's important to note that some properties can seem ambiguous. For instance, while total heat content is extensive, temperature (the average kinetic energy of the particles) is intensive.

Conclusion:

Differentiating between intensive and extensive properties is essential for understanding the behavior of matter. By understanding the definitions and using the practical approach outlined above, you can confidently identify intensive properties from a given list. Remember, an intensive property is independent of the amount of substance present – it’s a characteristic inherent to the material itself. This understanding is critical for various applications in scientific and engineering fields.