E

Extensive Property

Scales with amount: e.g., mass (m), volume (V), enthalpy (H)
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationScales with amount: e.g., mass (m), volume (V), enthalpy (H)
Also Known AsExtensive quantity; size-dependent property; additive property; scalable property; extrinsic property (non-standard)

What is Extensive Property?

An extensive property is a physical property of a system that depends on the amount (quantity) of matter present. If the system is divided, the extensive property is also divided proportionally. Examples include mass, volume, total energy, enthalpy, entropy, and heat capacity. In contrast, intensive properties (temperature, pressure, density) do not depend on the amount of matter.

Formula & Notation

Scales with amount: e.g., mass (m), volume (V), enthalpy (H)

Other Names / Synonyms: Extensive quantity; size-dependent property; additive property; scalable property; extrinsic property (non-standard)

Properties & Characteristics

Scales with amount of substance; examples: mass (kg), volume (L), total energy (J), enthalpy (H), entropy (S), heat capacity (Cp), charge (C); additive for subsystems; extensive/intensive = intensive property (e.g., H/n = molar enthalpy is intensive)

Uses & Applications

Understanding thermodynamic state functions; distinguishing scalable vs. intrinsic properties; designing chemical plants (scaling up reactions); thermodynamic calculations for different quantities of material

Safety Information

No hazard — a classification of physical properties.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Extensive Property
Formula Scales with amount: e.g., mass (m), volume (V), enthalpy (H)
Synonyms Extensive quantity; size-dependent property; additive property; scalable property; extrinsic property (non-standard)

Frequently Asked Questions

An extensive property is a physical property of a system that depends on the amount (quantity) of matter present. If the system is divided, the extensive property is also divided proportionally. Examples include mass, volume, total energy, enthalpy, entropy, and heat capacity. In contrast, intensive properties (temperature, pressure, density) do not depend on the amount of matter.

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