Wouldn't the solid expand in all directions?

[MathewsMD]

In this case, wouldn't the solid expand in all directions? Wouldn't x and y decrease?

 

[mfb]

In this case, wouldn't the solid expand in all directions? Wouldn't x and y decrease?

If every distance in the solid expands, why would you expect a contraction of the material along the inner edge?

(No, x and y do not decrease)

 

[MathewsMD]

If every distance in the solid expands, why would you expect a contraction of the material along the inner edge?

(No, x and y do not decrease)

Why is it that the solid only increases outward, though? Why does it no expand inwards as well? This would mean x and y (as shown in the picture) are decreasing. I just can't seem to understand why the object would grow in one direction for each component (horizontal and vertical) when looking at this image.

 

[mfb]

It is growing in all directions - every distance between points increases, as the whole material stretches.
As long as there is no fixed outer border which stops expansion in that direction, a uniform expansion of everything is the best way to avoid internal stress.
It is not a liquid...

 

[HalfLostAndSearching]

Yes, in this case, the solid would expand in all directions. This is because when a solid is heated, the molecules within the solid gain energy and vibrate more rapidly, causing them to push against each other and take up more space. This expansion occurs in all directions, including both the x and y directions.

However, it is important to note that the overall size of the solid may not necessarily decrease in this scenario. While the individual molecules are expanding, they are still connected and held together by intermolecular forces, which can counteract the expansion and maintain the overall size of the solid.

Additionally, the expansion in the x and y directions may not necessarily be equal. This can depend on the structure and composition of the solid, as well as the temperature at which it is heated. In some cases, one direction may expand more than the other, resulting in a change in the shape of the solid.

Overall, the expansion of a solid in all directions is a normal and expected phenomenon when it is heated, and it is important for scientists to consider this when studying and working with solids.