Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: -273o C
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Absolute zero is the theoretical temperature at which particles have minimum thermal motion. It anchors the Kelvin scale and has a fixed conversion to Celsius. Understanding this value is fundamental in physics, cryogenics, and semiconductor behavior at low temperatures.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Use the conversion T_C = T_K − 273.15. Exact value is −273.15 °C; many basic multiple-choice contexts round to −273 °C. Recognize that 0 °C (freezing point of water) and 25 °C (room temperature) are far above absolute zero.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Start with absolute zero: T_K = 0.Convert to Celsius: T_C = 0 − 273.15 = −273.15 °C.Rounded choice closest to the exact value: −273 °C.
Verification / Alternative check:
Reverse conversion: −273.15 °C + 273.15 = 0 K. This confirms consistency between scales.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
(a) 0 °C is the freezing point of water. (c) −276 °C is not the standard conversion. (d) 25 °C is ambient room temperature, not absolute zero.
Common Pitfalls:
Mixing −273 with −273.15; for scientific precision, keep two decimal places; for general MCQs, −273 °C is accepted.
Final Answer:
-273o C.
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