Difference between a kelvin and a celcius degree

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the difference between a kelvin and a Celsius degree, particularly in the context of a homework problem from a chemistry textbook. Participants explore the relationship between the two temperature scales, focusing on their magnitudes and the implications for conversions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the conversion between kelvin and Celsius, specifically questioning the correct interpretation of the homework problem.
  • Another participant clarifies that 0 °C corresponds to 273.15 K, and agrees with the initial participant's approach to the problem.
  • Some participants propose that the problem is asking about the magnitude of the degrees, suggesting that 1 K is equivalent to 1 °C due to their equal size in terms of temperature change.
  • There is a discussion about the ambiguity of the question, with suggestions that the problem's wording could lead to different interpretations regarding what is being asked.
  • One participant emphasizes the distinction between the unit of measurement (degree) and the quantity measured (temperature), indicating that confusion arises from this difference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a change of 1 K is equivalent to a change of 1 °C. However, there is disagreement regarding the interpretation of the homework question and whether it is ambiguous.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the potential for misunderstanding due to the phrasing of the question and the distinction between temperature scales and their units. Some assumptions about the clarity of the problem remain unresolved.

asdf12321asdf
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Homework Statement


I feel stupid posting this but I am completely lost. This is a problem on my Chemistry textbook's website, which gives immediate feedback on whether you are right or wrong, and I am just unable to get it right.

The question:
What is the difference between a kelvin and a Celsius degree?

Below in the answer box it says :
1 K = _________ °C

The Attempt at a Solution


So to convert from K to °C you do temperature in K - 273.15, right? So I did 1 - 273.15 and got -272.15. I put that in as my answer and got it wrong.

I feel like I am doing it right, so I'm not sure if maybe the answer key is wrong. Or maybe I am just stupid. I've tried numerous other numbers and keep getting it wrong, and for each wrong answer I am getting points off. Please help.

Thanks
 
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So you are confused about which way to go.
Think about the degrees this way: 0 C is 273.15 K. I agree with YOUR answer. Absolute Zero K would be -273.15 C. One degree up from absolute zero, same size degree regardless of scale chosen between K or C, would then be -273.15+1=-272.15 C
 
I think the problem is probably asking about the magnitude of a Kelvin degree as compared to the magnitude of a Celsius degree. Since they are the same magnitude, it wants the answer that 1K = 1C. Try this and see if this is the right answer.
 
phyzguy said:
I think the problem is probably asking about the magnitude of a Kelvin degree as compared to the magnitude of a Celsius degree. Since they are the same magnitude, it wants the answer that 1K = 1C. Try this and see if this is the right answer.

It was right! Thanks so much. I'm a bit confused by the answer though. Does 1K = 1C because of the fact that a change in 1 degree in both K and C is the same amount? Also, how am I supposed to know that they want 1K = 1C rather than 1K = -272.15?
 
asdf12321asdf said:
It was right! Thanks so much. I'm a bit confused by the answer though. Does 1K = 1C because of the fact that a change in 1 degree in both K and C is the same amount? Also, how am I supposed to know that they want 1K = 1C rather than 1K = -272.15?

Yes, that's right, the point is that a change of 1K is the same as a change of 1C. As far as how you're supposed to know what they are asking, I have no idea. Maybe you should point out to your teacher that the problem is ambiguous.
 
phyzguy said:
Yes, that's right, the point is that a change of 1K is the same as a change of 1C. As far as how you're supposed to know what they are asking, I have no idea. Maybe you should point out to your teacher that the problem is ambiguous.

Ok, will do. Thanks again for the help!
 
The size of a Celsius degree is the same as the size of a Kelvin degree.
 
asdf12321asdf said:
What is the difference between a kelvin and a Celsius degree?

phyzguy said:
Maybe you should point out to your teacher that the problem is ambiguous.

They don't ask about TEMPERATURE, they ask about a DEGREE. I don't see ambiguity here, even if I understand the confusion - but confusion comes from the lack of understanding of the difference between unit used and quantity measured.
 

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