Is 1C really not equal to 1K? Investigating the Differences

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the Celsius and Kelvin temperature scales, specifically whether a change of 1 degree Celsius is equivalent to a change of 1 Kelvin. Participants are tasked with exploring the instructor's assertion that these increments are not equal.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion regarding the instructor's statement, with some attempting to clarify the definitions of the Celsius and Kelvin scales. Questions arise about how to prove the instructor's claim and whether the increments of temperature are indeed the same.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the definitions of the temperature scales and their historical context, suggesting that while the increments may be defined similarly, the scales themselves have different reference points. There is an ongoing exploration of the instructor's intent and the implications for the homework assignment.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the instructor's question may pertain to the differences in how Celsius and Kelvin are defined, particularly in relation to absolute zero and the triple point of water. There is also mention of potential confusion regarding terminology, such as the use of "centigrade." The discussion reflects a mix of interpretations and attempts to reconcile differing views on the topic.

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Homework Statement



All we know think that 1C = 1K as difference. But our instructor said that they were not equal each other and wanted from us that we would prove this as homework. How can we prove that they were not equal each other?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


 
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dhar666 said:

Homework Statement



All we know think that 1C = 1K as difference. But our instructor said that they were not equal each other and wanted from us that we would prove this as homework. How can we prove that they were not equal each other?

K being Kelvin? And I don't exactly understand your question, do you need to prove that 1C is not equal to 1Kelvin? Because its not. 1C = 274.15Kelvin
 
Last edited:
well 1 degree Celsius is equal to 274 Kelvin. the values of each degree are the same though, so I'm not sure what he means by prove it. perhaps you could list the temperature of absolute zero in kelvin and Celsius, then do the same for the freezing and boiling points of water...
 
Numzie said:
1C = 273.15Kelvin

thats the measure for 0 Celsius in Kelvin
 
sadakaa said:
thats the measure for 0 Celsius in Kelvin

Thats true, my bad.
 
Sorry for misunderstanding. Instructor wrote on the blackboard as this:

Is 1K (Kelvin) difference equal or not equal to 1C (celsius) difference?

Everybody said that yes they are equal to each other but our instructor said that no they are not equal to each other and wanted from us to prove this as homework.

I have a MSc degree and attending PHd. classes, this is the first time i have ever heard about this.
 
I could only imagine your instructor was referring to how celsius and Kelvin scales were defined. The Kelvin scale was defined by absolute zero and the triple point of water. The celsius scale was defined by the melting point of ice and the boiling point of water. Many years ago they changed the definition of the celsius scale so that it too was defined by the absolute zero and the triple point of water. That means that the increments of 1K and 1 celsius are effectively defined to be the same.
 
Thanks for your reply. Maybe it can be related with whether it is celsius or centigrade but it sounds strange when it is heard as they are not equal each other.

Is there anyone who have strange or different opinion?

Or, i mean, what will I write in my homework :)
 
read Kurdt's post (last sentence if anything)
 

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