Recreational Vehicle (RV) Technician Practice Test

What happens to propane when the temperature increases?

1. It contracts

2. It expands

3. It evaporates

4. It solidifies

The correct answer is: It expands

When the temperature of propane increases, it expands. This behavior is due to the fundamental principle of gases, where an increase in temperature results in the gas molecules gaining energy. As these propane molecules become energized, they move more rapidly and spread out, leading to an increase in volume. In practical terms, this is particularly relevant in the context of propane storage and use in recreational vehicles. Propane is typically stored under pressure in liquid form; when it is heated, the pressure in the tank can rise significantly. If the pressure exceeds the design parameters of the tank or system, it can lead to pressure relief mechanisms activating or even a risk of leaks. Understanding this behavior is crucial for RV technicians to ensure safe operation of propane systems within RVs. The other choices do not apply in this context: propane does not contract when heated, nor does it evaporate or solidify at higher temperatures under normal conditions. Propane gas typically evaporates from its liquid form at lower temperatures but will not solidify under standard atmospheric pressures and temperatures usually associated with RV use.