Absolute temperature scale

Definition

An absolute temperature scale is a thermodynamic temperature scale that uses absolute zero as its null point. The two most common absolute temperature scales are Kelvin and Rankine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. It starts at absolute zero, the theoretical point where molecular motion ceases.
2. The Kelvin scale is the SI unit for thermodynamic temperature and is used in scientific contexts.
3. One Kelvin degree is equivalent to one degree Celsius; however, they have different starting points.
4. Rankine scale is primarily used in engineering fields, particularly in the United States.
5. Absolute temperature scales are crucial for understanding laws of thermodynamics such as the ideal gas law.

Review Questions

• What is the significance of absolute zero on an absolute temperature scale?
• How does one convert from Celsius to Kelvin?
• In what fields or applications might you encounter the Rankine scale?

Related terms

Absolute Zero:

The lowest possible temperature where all molecular motion stops, defined as 0 Kelvin or -273.15 degrees Celsius.

Kelvin Scale:

A thermodynamic temperature scale where absolute zero is 0 K, and each increment represents one degree Celsius.

Rankine Scale: An absolute temperature scale used mainly in engineering systems in the US, where 0 degrees Rankine equals -459.67 degrees Fahrenheit.