Thermodynamic scale in the S.I. system: select the correct unit of temperature used internationally for scientific and engineering work.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Kelvin

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Temperature scales appear everywhere in engineering: material properties, gas laws, and heat-transfer calculations. The S.I. chooses a single coherent base unit for thermodynamic temperature to ensure universal comparability and to avoid offsets that complicate equations.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The S.I. base unit for thermodynamic temperature is the kelvin (K).
  • Informal terms like “degree centigrade” are deprecated; “degree Celsius” (°C) remains widely used for everyday measurements but is not the S.I. base unit.
  • Fahrenheit and Rankine are non-S.I.


Concept / Approach:
Many formulas (e.g., ideal gas law) require an absolute scale without arbitrary zero points; the kelvin provides this. While Celsius is convenient for weather or lab readings, kelvin is the fundamental unit in S.I.-based computations and standards.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify S.I. base unit: kelvin (symbol K).Note relationship: T[K] = t[°C] + 273.15.Therefore, the correct choice is Kelvin.


Verification / Alternative check:

Check S.I. brochure: thermodynamic temperature base unit is kelvin, not degree-based units.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Degree centigrade: obsolete term for Celsius.Degree Celsius: practical unit, but not the S.I. base unit.Degree Fahrenheit, Rankine: non-S.I. scales.


Common Pitfalls:

Confusing everyday measurement units with S.I. base units.Using °C directly in absolute-temperature formulas that require kelvin.


Final Answer:

Kelvin

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion