Kelvin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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kelvin
[ˈkɛlvɪn ]
Definition
temperature scale
Kelvin is a unit of temperature measurement in the International System of Units (SI). It is named after the Scottish physicist William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, who proposed this absolute temperature scale. The Kelvin scale starts at absolute zero, the point at which all molecular motion ceases. Each increment on the Kelvin scale is equivalent to one degree Celsius, making it essential for scientific calculations, particularly in physics and engineering.
Examples of usage
- The water boils at 373.15 Kelvin.
- Absolute zero is 0 Kelvin.
- The temperature of the star is around 5000 Kelvin.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In science, temperature measured in kelvins is crucial for understanding phenomena in physics and chemistry.
- The kelvin scale is often used in fields like astronomy, as the temperature of stars is often measured in kelvins.
- Absolute zero (0 K) is the theoretical point where particles have minimal energy, leading to profound implications in quantum mechanics.
Pop Culture
- In popular science communication, the term 'kelvin' can often be heard in discussions about light temperature in photography and film.
- Though not a common household term, movies and shows sometimes touch on themes of cold and heat measured in kelvins when showing intense scientific discoveries.
History
- The development of the kelvin scale was a significant advancement in the 19th century, aiding the Industrial Revolution through improved scientific understanding.
- Lord Kelvin helped lay the groundwork for modern thermodynamics, which is essential in various engineering fields.
Technology
- In technology, understanding temperature in kelvins is vital for the operation of devices like thermocouples and other sensors.
- Laser cooling techniques often refer to temperatures in kelvins when achieving ultra-cold states, showcasing advancements in physics.
Origin of 'kelvin'
Main points about word origin
- Named after Scottish physicist William Thomson, known as Lord Kelvin, who worked on the laws of thermodynamics.
- The scale starts at absolute zero, the point where all molecular motion stops, which is -273.15 degrees Celsius.
- The kelvin scale is unique because it does not use degrees; it simply refers to 'kelvins.'
The term 'Kelvin' was established in the 19th century, derived from the name of the Scottish physicist William Thomson, who was honored with the title of Lord Kelvin in 1892. The Kelvin scale was introduced as part of a broader movement in science to create an absolute temperature scale that would enhance the precision of thermodynamic calculations. It was chosen because it provides a reliable reference point for thermal energy. When Lord Kelvin formulated this scale in 1848, he suggested that 0 K be defined as the temperature at which the entropy of a perfect crystal reaches its minimum value; this is known as absolute zero. The Kelvin scale is commonly used in scientific fields, particularly in thermodynamics and physical chemistry, where temperature measurements are crucial to understanding the behavior of physical systems.