5.3.2

Temperature & the Kelvin Scale

Test yourself

Temperature and the Kelvin Scale

In physics, the Kelvin scale is more useful than the °C scale. This is because we can use it in useful equations.

Illustrative background for Kinetic energyIllustrative background for Kinetic energy ?? "content

Kinetic energy

  • The Kelvin temperature of a gas is directly proportional to the average kinetic energy of particles in a gas.
    • T α kinetic energy
  • If we double the temperature, we double the average kinetic energy.
  • If we halve the temperature, we halve the average kinetic energy.
Illustrative background for PressureIllustrative background for Pressure ?? "content

Pressure

  • For a fixed mass of gas at constant volume, pressure divided by the Kelvin temperature is constant.
    • p1 / T1 = p2 / T2.
  • This is another way of saying pressure is proportional to temperature.
    • p α T.
  • If we double the pressure, we double the temperature.

Jump to other topics

1Forces & Motion

1.1Basics of Motion

1.2Forces

1.3Effects of Forces

1.4Stopping Distance

1.5Forces & Elasticity

2Electricity

3Waves

4Energy Resources & Energy Transfers

5Solids, Liquids & Gases

6Magnetism & Electromagnetism

7Radioactivity & Particles

8Astrophysics

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium