QQuestionPhysics
QuestionPhysics
Why is it important to use Kelvin instead of degrees Celsius in calculations involving temperature in gas laws?
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Answer
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Step 1: Understand the concept of absolute temperature scales
Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of particles in a substance. Absolute temperature scales, such as Kelvin, are based on the principle that there is an absolute zero point where all molecular motion ceases. This is different from relative scales like Celsius, which are based on arbitrary reference points.
Step 2: Recognize the ideal gas law formula
The ideal gas law relates the pressure (P), volume (V), amount of gas (n), and temperature (T) of a gas: where R is the gas constant.
Final Answer
It is important to use Kelvin instead of degrees Celsius in calculations involving temperature in gas laws because Kelvin is an absolute temperature scale, ensuring that the temperature remains positive and aligns with the fundamental assumptions of the ideal gas law.
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