When calculating the apparent expansion of a liquid in a container, it is generally assumed that the container's parameters, such as its volume and shape, remain constant throughout the temperature change. This assumption allows for a simplified analysis of the liquid's expansion without considering the expansion or contraction of the container itself.
The apparent expansion refers to the observed change in the liquid's volume or height due to its own expansion or contraction as a result of a temperature change. It is calculated by considering the change in the liquid's dimensions while assuming that the container remains unchanged.
To find the apparent height difference between the starting and ending temperatures for the liquid, you would typically measure the initial height of the liquid in the container at the starting temperature and then measure the final height at the ending temperature. The difference between these two height measurements represents the apparent expansion of the liquid.
It is worth noting that this approach assumes that the container's dimensions and material properties do not significantly change with temperature. In some cases, especially with extreme temperature changes or specific container materials, the expansion or contraction of the container itself might become a factor and need to be considered for a more accurate analysis.