Examples of Extensive Properties

Oct 13, 2025 by magicalceylontours.com 136 views

In the realm of chemistry, properties of substances can be broadly classified into two categories: intensive and extensive properties. While intensive properties are independent of the amount of substance present, extensive properties depend on the quantity of the substance. In this article, we will delve into the world of extensive properties and explore which of the given options is an example of such a property.

What are Extensive Properties?

Extensive properties are those that depend on the amount of substance present. They are additive in nature, meaning that their values increase or decrease in proportion to the quantity of the substance. Examples of extensive properties include mass, volume, and density. These properties are crucial in understanding the behavior of substances and are often used in calculations involving chemical reactions and physical changes.

Examples of Extensive Properties

Some common examples of extensive properties include:

Mass: The amount of matter present in a substance is an extensive property. The mass of a substance is directly proportional to its quantity.
Volume: The space occupied by a substance is an extensive property. The volume of a substance increases with its quantity.
Density: Density is the mass per unit volume of a substance. It is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of substance present.
Weight: Weight is the force exerted on a substance by gravity. It is an extensive property because it depends on the mass of the substance.

Which of the Given Options is an Extensive Property?

Now that we have a clear understanding of extensive properties, let's examine the given options:

A. Hardness: Hardness is a measure of a substance's resistance to deformation or scratching. It is an intensive property because it does not depend on the amount of substance present.

B. Malleability: Malleability is the ability of a substance to be shaped or molded without breaking. It is an intensive property because it does not depend on the amount of substance present.

C. Volume: Volume is the space occupied by a substance. It is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of substance present.

Based on our understanding of extensive properties, it is clear that C. Volume is the correct answer. Volume is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of substance present.

Conclusion

In conclusion, extensive properties are those that depend on the amount of substance present. They are additive in nature and are crucial in understanding the behavior of substances. Examples of extensive properties include mass, volume, and density. By understanding the difference between intensive and extensive properties, we can better appreciate the behavior of substances and make more accurate calculations in chemistry.

Key Takeaways

Extensive properties depend on the amount of substance present.
Examples of extensive properties include mass, volume, and density.
Volume is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of substance present.
Intensive properties, such as hardness and malleability, do not depend on the amount of substance present.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between intensive and extensive properties?
Which of the given options is an extensive property?
What are some examples of extensive properties?

References

Atkins, P. W., & de Paula, J. (2010). Physical chemistry (9th ed.). Oxford University Press.
Chang, R. (2010). Chemistry: The central science (11th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
Petrucci, R. H., Harwood, W. S., & Herring, F. G. (2007). General chemistry: Principles and modern applications (9th ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall.
Q&A: Extensive Properties in Chemistry =============================================

In our previous article, we explored the concept of extensive properties in chemistry and identified volume as an example of such a property. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions related to extensive properties and provide additional insights into this fascinating topic.

Q: What is the difference between intensive and extensive properties?

A: Intensive properties are those that do not depend on the amount of substance present, whereas extensive properties depend on the quantity of the substance. Examples of intensive properties include hardness, malleability, and boiling point, while examples of extensive properties include mass, volume, and density.

Q: Which of the given options is an extensive property?

A: In our previous article, we identified C. Volume as the correct answer. Volume is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of substance present.

Q: What are some examples of extensive properties?

A: Some common examples of extensive properties include:

Mass: The amount of matter present in a substance is an extensive property.
Volume: The space occupied by a substance is an extensive property.
Density: Density is the mass per unit volume of a substance and is an extensive property.
Weight: Weight is the force exerted on a substance by gravity and is an extensive property.

Q: Why are extensive properties important in chemistry?

A: Extensive properties are crucial in understanding the behavior of substances and are often used in calculations involving chemical reactions and physical changes. By understanding the difference between intensive and extensive properties, we can better appreciate the behavior of substances and make more accurate calculations in chemistry.

Q: Can you provide some real-world examples of extensive properties?

A: Here are some real-world examples of extensive properties:

Mass: The mass of a car is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of metal used in its construction.
Volume: The volume of a swimming pool is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of water it can hold.
Density: The density of a metal alloy is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of metal present.

Q: How do I determine whether a property is intensive or extensive?

A: To determine whether a property is intensive or extensive, ask yourself the following questions:

Does the property depend on the amount of substance present?
Is the property additive in nature?
Does the property increase or decrease in proportion to the quantity of the substance?

If you answer "yes" to the first question and "yes" to the second question, the property is likely an extensive property. If you answer "no" to the first question, the property is likely an intensive property.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when working with extensive properties?

A: Here are some common mistakes to avoid when working with extensive properties:

Confusing intensive and extensive properties: Make sure to understand the difference between intensive and extensive properties before working with them.
Failing to account for unit conversions: When working with extensive properties, make sure to account for unit conversions to avoid errors.
Ignoring the additive nature of extensive properties: Remember that extensive properties are additive in nature, meaning that their values increase or decrease in proportion to the quantity of the substance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, extensive properties are those that depend on the amount of substance present. They are additive in nature and are crucial in understanding the behavior of substances. By understanding the difference between intensive and extensive properties, we can better appreciate the behavior of substances and make more accurate calculations in chemistry.

Key Takeaways

Extensive properties depend on the amount of substance present.
Examples of extensive properties include mass, volume, and density.
Volume is an extensive property because it depends on the amount of substance present.
Intensive properties, such as hardness and malleability, do not depend on the amount of substance present.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between intensive and extensive properties?
Which of the given options is an extensive property?
What are some examples of extensive properties?
Why are extensive properties important in chemistry?
Can you provide some real-world examples of extensive properties?
How do I determine whether a property is intensive or extensive?
What are some common mistakes to avoid when working with extensive properties?

References

Atkins, P. W., & de Paula, J. (2010). Physical chemistry (9th ed.). Oxford University Press.
Chang, R. (2010). Chemistry: The central science (11th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
Petrucci, R. H., Harwood, W. S., & Herring, F. G. (2007). General chemistry: Principles and modern applications (9th ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall.