What would happen if you brought a deodorant can to 0 Kelvin

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effects of bringing a deodorant can to 0 Kelvin, a temperature that is theoretically unachievable. Participants clarify that as temperatures approach absolute zero, the propellant gas in the can would first liquefy and then solidify. Additionally, the container material, whether plastic or aluminum, would become brittle or embrittled, potentially leading to leaks or explosive reactions upon thawing. The consensus is clear: attempting this experiment is highly dangerous and not advisable.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamics and absolute zero
  • Familiarity with the properties of gases and liquids at low temperatures
  • Knowledge of material science, particularly the behavior of plastics and metals at extreme temperatures
  • Awareness of safety protocols when handling pressurized containers
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of gases at low temperatures, focusing on phase transitions
  • Study the effects of extreme cold on different materials, including plastics and metals
  • Learn about cryogenics and the technologies used to achieve near absolute zero temperatures
  • Investigate safety measures for handling pressurized containers in extreme conditions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, material scientists, safety engineers, and anyone interested in the effects of extreme temperatures on everyday objects.

Ben70
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Not an experience physicist but just curious as to what would happen.
 
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Hi Ben
welcome to PF :smile:

Ben70 said:
Not an experience physicist but just curious as to what would happen.

I'm assuming you are referring to an air/other gas pressurised can ?

any particular reason why you chose a deodorant can ?Dave
 
First off, you can't bring anything to 0K actually, as it is an unachievable temperature.
But, getting very close to it, at some point the propellant gas would become liquid, and even colder it would solidify.
 
Thanks for the warm welcoming Dave :oldsmile:, chose a deodorant can at random to be honest, no perticular reason.

@rumborak Thanks for the answer, never knew that 0k was unachievable.
 
Ben70 said:
what would happen

I wouldn't spray it on me, that's for sure! :oldsurprised:
 
You cannot get down to 0 K, okay ? Very best tech can reach pico-Kelvins, but even liquid nitrogen, which boils at 77 K (−195.8°C or −320.4°F) will have *interesting* effects.

Um, is this deodorant a 'pump action' version, or 'propellant' driven ? Does label warn against fire, likely an alkane mix ?? Or is it a rare (?) CO2 'bag in can' model ?

Whatever, the 'carrier' solvent will soon freeze solid. Any 'propellant' vapour will later freeze, too. If a plastic container, it may hit 'plastic transition temperature' somewhere below -20°C (-4°F) and become very, very brittle. If an aluminium alloy, it may become embrittled, but I don't know the metallurgy. Certainly, the pump / seal / valve assembly will suffer, may leak when thawed. Anything from 'fizz' to 'FWOOSH', potentially lethal if flammable...

Don't try this at home.
 

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