The Kelvin Scale and Absolute Zero

• What is absolute zero defined as on the Kelvin scale?

  The lowest temperature possible, 0 K

  
• Why can't temperatures be lower than 0 K?

  Because it represents absolute zero
• What is the temperature in Celsius equivalent to absolute zero?

  -273.15 °C

  
• What does absolute zero signify in terms of molecular energy?

  Molecules have zero kinetic energy
• What is the temperature in space just above absolute zero?

  Approximately 2.7 K
• How do you convert Celsius to Kelvin?

  • Use the formula:

  $T / K =$$θ / C +$$273.15$
• How do you convert Kelvin to Celsius?

  • Use the formula:

  $θ / C =$$T / K - 273.15$
• What is the relationship between temperature changes in Kelvin and Celsius?

  A change of 1 K equals 1 °C

  
• Why does the specific heat capacity equation not require temperature units?

  Because temperature differences are the same
• What is room temperature considered in ideal gas problems?

  300 K
• How do you convert 300 K to Celsius?

  300 K - 273.15 = 26.85 °C
• What is a helpful tip for remembering the conversion between Celsius and Kelvin?

  0 °C = 273.15 K

  
• Can you use a rounded value of 273 K in exams?

  Yes, you will not be penalized