Definition

1. Noun:
   • A thermodynamic temperature scale: The Kelvin scale is an absolute temperature scale where zero is defined as absolute zero, the theoretical point at which all molecular motion ceases. It is one of the seven base units in the International System of Units (SI). On this scale, the size of one unit (one kelvin, symbol K) is equal to one degree on the Celsius scale, but the starting points are different.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • In scientific experiments, temperature is often measured using the Kelvin scale.
  • Absolute zero on the Kelvin scale is equivalent to -273.15 degrees Celsius.
  • The formula requires the temperature to be expressed in the Kelvin scale.

Advanced Usage

• "Absolute temperature": Temperature measured on the Kelvin scale is often referred to as absolute temperature because its zero point is an absolute minimum.
  • The gas law calculations are only accurate when using absolute temperature.
• Symbol and Unit: The unit is the (symbol: K). Unlike Celsius or Fahrenheit, it is not referred to as a "degree." The correct usage is "273 K," not "273°K" or "273 degrees Kelvin."

Variants and Related Words

• Kelvin (K) (n): The base SI unit of thermodynamic temperature, defined as the fraction 1/273.16 of the thermodynamic temperature of the triple point of water.
  • Water boils at approximately 373.15 K.
• Absolute zero (n): The zero point of the Kelvin scale, equivalent to 0 K or -273.15°C.
  • Scientists study matter near absolute zero to observe quantum effects.

Synonyms

• Absolute scale: Another term for the Kelvin scale, emphasizing its zero point at absolute zero.
• Thermodynamic temperature scale: A more technical synonym describing its fundamental physical basis.

Related Phrases

• "On the Kelvin scale": A prepositional phrase used to specify the measurement system.
  • What is the melting point of iron on the Kelvin scale?
• "Convert to Kelvin": A common instruction in science and engineering to change a temperature value from Celsius or Fahrenheit to the Kelvin scale.
  • Remember to convert the Celsius temperature to Kelvin before applying the formula.

Noun

1. a temperature scale that defines absolute zero as 0 degrees; water freezes at 273.16 degrees and boils at 373.16 degrees