What Happens at Absolute Zero Temperature?

In summary, absolute zero temperature is when a reversible isothermal process does not involve the exchange of heat. At this temperature, the pressure and volume of a gas are both zero. This is possible because, according to the Ideal Gas Law, if temperature is zero, the product of pressure and volume must also be zero. However, the gas molecules still have some dimensions, so the gas must occupy some volume. The pressure exerted by the gas on the container is zero at absolute zero temperature.
  • #1
Amith2006
427
2
Sir,
Absolute zero temperature is defined as the temperature at which a reversible isothermal process does not involve exchange of heat. Can you please explain this to me? :confused: Also it is said that at absolute zero temperature the pressure and volume of a gas is zero. How is it possible?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
From the Ideal Gas Law, PV = nRT, you know that if T is zero so must be the product of P and V. I would argue to say that the pressure exerted by the gas on the container is zero.

Actually, it MUST occupy some volume. The individual molecules themselves are of some definite (although small) dimensions.
 

FAQ: What Happens at Absolute Zero Temperature?

What is the definition of absolute zero temperature?

Absolute zero temperature is the lowest possible temperature that can be reached, where all molecular and atomic motion ceases. It is equivalent to 0 Kelvin or -273.15 degrees Celsius.

How is absolute zero temperature different from 0 degrees Celsius?

Absolute zero temperature is the lowest possible temperature, while 0 degrees Celsius is a specific temperature on the Celsius scale. Absolute zero is equivalent to -273.15 degrees Celsius, so it is much colder than 0 degrees Celsius.

What happens at absolute zero temperature?

At absolute zero temperature, all molecular and atomic motion stops. This means that all matter is at its lowest possible energy state, and no further energy can be extracted from it.

Can absolute zero temperature be reached?

In theory, it is possible to reach absolute zero temperature, but it is practically impossible to achieve in reality. As matter cools down, it loses heat and approaches absolute zero, but it can never truly reach it.

How is absolute zero temperature measured?

Absolute zero temperature is measured in units of Kelvin (K) on the Kelvin scale. It is also sometimes measured in degrees Celsius (°C) on the Celsius scale, where 0 degrees Celsius is equivalent to 273.15 Kelvin.

Similar threads

B What would happen to perception if temperatures almost reached absolute zero?
Replies
2
Views
1K
What does "limit of zero pressure" mean for ideal gas temperature?
Replies
14
Views
2K
Absolute zeros other than temperature (e.g. pressure)
Replies
11
Views
1K
I How did Charles obtain his law when absolute temperature wasn't define
Replies
3
Views
1K
Why is there no maximum temperature?
Replies
13
Views
14K
Effect of temperature on surface tension
Replies
2
Views
439
I Empirical temperature scales using different thermometers
Replies
7
Views
1K
B Extrapolation of relationship of temperature and volume for gas
Replies
7
Views
2K
I Fermi energy definition and Fermi-Dirac distribution
Replies
3
Views
2K
A question on absolute kelvin temperature scale.
Replies
15
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top