Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: absolute zero temperature
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Understanding absolute temperature and its physical meaning is central to thermodynamics and kinetic theory. Extrapolating gas law behavior to zero volume identifies a key reference point on the Kelvin scale.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Charles’ law indicates V1/T1 = V2/T2 at constant pressure for an ideal gas. Extrapolating this straight line to V = 0 yields T = 0 K, called the absolute zero temperature. At absolute zero, ideal-gas pressure and volume vanish in the limiting sense, consistent with minimal thermal motion.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Start from V ∝ T (constant pressure, fixed mass).Extrapolate to V = 0 ⇒ T = 0 K.Therefore the correct term is “absolute zero temperature.”
Verification / Alternative check:
Absolute zero is the zero point of the Kelvin scale; thermodynamic temperature is defined so that Carnot efficiency depends only on temperature ratio T_cold/T_hot.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Absolute temperature” is the general term for temperature measured from 0 K; “absolute scale of temperature” is the name of the scale, not the specific point.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the scale (Kelvin) with the specific zero point; applying real-gas deviations at high pressures where linearity breaks down.
Final Answer:
absolute zero temperature
Discussion & Comments