Difference between the absolute thermodynamic temperature scale and ITS-90

In summary, the absolute thermodynamic temperature scale and the practical temperature scale (ITS-90) differ in their definitions and applications. The thermodynamic scale is based on ideal conditions and laws of thermodynamics, while the practical scale is defined by real devices commonly used in laboratories. The ITS-90 serves as a calibration standard for the thermodynamic scale, but is not a scale itself.
  • #1
Ronalds
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Homework Statement


What is the difference between the absolute thermodynamic temperature scale and the practical temperature scale: ITS-90?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Do you want to know the conceptual difference between the two scales, or do you want to calculate the (numerical) difference between them?
 
  • #3
I wanted to know the conceptual difference between the two scales. Is there anything else except that ITS-90 is a calibration standard for the thermodynamic temperature scale, not a scale itself? Could you please tell in your own words, without any links to bunch of information. Would really appreciate it!
 
  • #4
ITS-90 is a "practical" temperature scale, defined in terms of real devices that you can use in a laboratory. Thermodynamic temperature is an "ideal" scale, defined using the laws of thermodynamics. In order to make measurements using it, you would need to use devices that don't exist in practice, e.g. ideal gases or Carnot engines.
 
  • #5


The absolute thermodynamic temperature scale, also known as the Kelvin scale, is based on the fundamental principles of thermodynamics and is defined by the triple point of water (273.16K) as its lowest point. This scale is used in scientific and engineering applications and is independent of the properties of any particular substance.

On the other hand, the International Temperature Scale of 1990 (ITS-90) is a practical temperature scale that is used for industrial and commercial applications. It is based on the thermodynamic temperature scale, but it takes into account the properties of specific substances, such as the melting and freezing points of various metals and alloys. This allows for more precise and accurate measurements in practical settings.

In summary, the main difference between the two temperature scales is that the absolute thermodynamic scale is based on fundamental principles and is universal, while the ITS-90 is a practical scale that is tailored for specific substances and their properties. Both scales have their own uses and applications, and it is important to understand the differences between them in order to use them effectively in various contexts.
 

FAQ: Difference between the absolute thermodynamic temperature scale and ITS-90

1. What is the difference between the absolute thermodynamic temperature scale and ITS-90?

The absolute thermodynamic temperature scale, also known as the Kelvin scale, is based on the absolute zero point of -273.15 degrees Celsius and measures temperature in relation to molecular energy. ITS-90, on the other hand, is a practical temperature scale used for industrial and scientific measurements and is based on a set of reference points defined by international standards.

2. How do the scales differ in their measurement units?

The absolute thermodynamic temperature scale is measured in Kelvin (K), while ITS-90 is measured in degrees Celsius (°C). However, both scales are equivalent at their respective zero points (-273.15 °C = 0 K).

3. Which scale is more commonly used in scientific research?

The absolute thermodynamic temperature scale is more commonly used in scientific research as it provides a more precise and consistent measurement of temperature. ITS-90 is primarily used for practical applications and in industries such as thermometry and metrology.

4. What are the advantages of using ITS-90 over the absolute thermodynamic temperature scale?

One advantage of ITS-90 is that its reference points are more easily reproducible and can be realized in a laboratory setting. It also allows for a wider range of measurements and is more suitable for practical applications.

5. Are there any limitations to using ITS-90?

One limitation of ITS-90 is that it is not as accurate as the absolute thermodynamic temperature scale. This is due to uncertainties in the reference points and the use of interpolation between these points. Additionally, ITS-90 is not suitable for extremely low temperatures, as it does not have reference points below -259.3467 °C.

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