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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the hypothetical scenario of bringing a deodorant can to 0 Kelvin, exploring the physical implications and behaviors of materials at extremely low temperatures. The conversation touches on theoretical aspects, practical considerations, and the nature of gases and liquids under such conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that reaching 0 Kelvin is impossible, with one mentioning that the best technology can only achieve pico-Kelvins.
  • It is suggested that as temperatures approach 0 Kelvin, the propellant gas in the can would first become liquid and then solidify at even lower temperatures.
  • One participant raises questions about the type of deodorant can, specifically whether it is pump action or propellant-driven, and discusses the potential chemical composition of the propellant.
  • Concerns are expressed about the physical properties of the can's materials at low temperatures, including the brittleness of plastics and potential embrittlement of aluminum alloys.
  • There is a warning about the risks associated with the can potentially leaking or exploding upon thawing, especially if flammable materials are involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that reaching 0 Kelvin is unachievable and that significant changes would occur to the deodorant can at very low temperatures. However, there are differing views on the specifics of what would happen to the materials and the propellant, indicating unresolved aspects of the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention limitations regarding the assumptions about the type of deodorant can and the specific materials involved, which could affect the outcomes discussed.

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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