Difference Between Intensive and Extensive Property for JEE Main 2024

Intensive properties are those physical or chemical characteristics of matter that remain unaffected by the amount or size of the substance being considered. These properties do not depend on the mass, volume, or quantity of the substance and instead describe its inherent nature. In simpler terms, the value of an intensive property remains constant regardless of the sample's size or amount.

Examples of Intensive Properties:

To gain a better understanding, let us examine some common examples of intensive properties:

Density:

Density is the ratio of mass to volume and is defined as an intensive property. Regardless of the amount of substance being considered, its density remains constant. For example, the density of water at room temperature and pressure is approximately 1 g/cm³, whether it is a glassful or an ocean.

Melting Point and Boiling Point:

The melting point and boiling point of a substance are both intensive properties. These values remain constant regardless of the quantity of the material. For instance, the melting point of pure water is 0 degrees Celsius, and its boiling point is 100 degrees Celsius, regardless of the sample size.

Color and Luster:

Color and luster are examples of intensive properties as they describe the appearance of a substance and remain unchanged regardless of the amount of the material. For instance, gold maintains its characteristic yellow color and shiny appearance, whether it is a small nugget or a large bar.

Refractive Index:

The refractive index of a substance, which describes how light bends when it passes through it, is an intensive property. It is a characteristic property of a material and remains constant irrespective of the quantity considered.

What is Extensive Property?

In contrast, extensive properties are directly proportional to the size or amount of matter being considered. These properties depend on the mass, volume, or quantity of the substance and change with the sample's size. Extensive properties vary as we increase or decrease the quantity of the substance.

Examples of Extensive Properties:

Mass:

Mass is an extensive property that depends on the amount of matter present. If we increase or decrease the amount of substance, the mass changes accordingly. For instance, if we have 1 kg of a substance, doubling the amount to 2 kg will result in a proportional increase in mass.

Volume:

Volume is another extensive property that changes with the quantity of a substance. If we have a certain volume of a liquid, doubling the amount will also double the volume. For example, if we have 100 mL of water, doubling the quantity will result in a volume of 200 mL.

Energy:

Energy, whether it is in the form of heat or work, is an extensive property. It is directly proportional to the size or amount of a system. If we have a certain amount of energy, doubling the quantity of substance will also double the energy content.

Total Charge:

The total charge of a system is an extensive property that depends on the number of charged particles. Increasing or decreasing the quantity of charged particles will alter the total charge proportionally.

Differentiate Between Intensive and Extensive Property:

This tabular representation should provide a clear overview of the main distinctions between extensive and intensive properties, making it easier to comprehend their contrasting characteristics.

Summary:-

Intensive and extensive properties provide valuable insights into the nature and behavior of matter. Intensive properties are independent of the sample size, while extensive properties depend on the quantity of the substance being considered. By understanding these distinctions, students preparing for the JEE Mains can develop a solid foundation in the sciences and apply this knowledge to various scientific fields. Recognizing the importance of intensive and extensive properties opens doors to further exploration and understanding of the physical and chemical world.