Consider the following situation: There is a metal rectangular plate with a hole in the center. The hole is just big enough to pass a tennis ball...

Consider the following situation:

There is a metal rectangular plate with a hole in the center. The hole is just big enough to pass a tennis ball through.

As this plate heats up what would happen to the size of this hole?

Would it be easier or more difficult to pass the tennis ball through when heated?

Your initial answer should be substantial (100 words minimum).