What is a possible consequence of thermal expansion?

Thermal expansion refers to the way materials change in size or volume when exposed to heat. When solids, liquids, or gases are heated, their particles move more rapidly and tend to occupy more space, leading to an increase in volume. This phenomenon can create stresses within materials that may not be able to accommodate such changes.

The correct choice illustrates one of the potential consequences of thermal expansion—cracking of materials. As materials expand due to increased temperature, they may experience stress, especially if the expansion is uneven or if the material is constrained in some way. Concrete, for example, can crack as it expands because the pressure within the solid exceeds the material's tensile strength.

Thus, the phenomenon of thermal expansion can result in structural failure or damage, which is exemplified by cracking. Understanding this consequence is crucial in fields such as construction and manufacturing, where materials must be chosen and designs formulated to account for thermal expansion.