Answer to Question #157539 in Molecular Physics | Thermodynamics for Afraid

Question

Explain absolute temperature

Answer 1

Absolute temperature is one of the fundamental parameters of thermodynamics. The unit of absolute temperature is Kelvin (K), and 0K refers to the absolute zero - the point, at which the particles stop moving (practically they have the minimal possible motion), and the matter cannot become colder. At the point of an absolute zero (0K) matter is in the state of lowest possible energy. Therefore, there are no negative values of the absolute temperature possible. The temperature of 273.15 K corresponds to the triple point of water (in simple words - the melting/freezing point of water), and is equal to zero in commonly used Celsius scale. Absolute temperature is independent on the properties of a particular material.