Why is there no maximum temperature?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the concept of maximum temperature, exploring theoretical limits based on fundamental physics principles such as thermodynamics and general relativity. Participants examine the implications of absolute zero, the speed of light, and Planck's temperature, while considering various interpretations and models related to temperature and kinetic energy.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that if all fundamental particles vibrate at the speed of light, this could represent an absolute maximum temperature.
  • Others argue that temperature is related to kinetic energy, which can increase without limit as one approaches the speed of light, suggesting no maximum temperature exists.
  • A participant mentions Planck's temperature as a theoretical limit, asserting it is linked to the speed of light and the formation of black holes when energy density reaches a certain threshold.
  • Another participant questions the possibility of reaching absolute zero, citing quantum fluctuations that prevent achieving this state.
  • Some participants discuss the concept of negative temperatures, which they claim can be hotter than infinite temperature, challenging conventional views on temperature limits.
  • There are repeated references to Planck units, with some participants asserting that they do not represent absolute extremes in temperature.
  • Several participants engage in clarifying misunderstandings about the implications of particles moving at the speed of light and its relation to temperature.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion remains unresolved, with multiple competing views on the existence and nature of a maximum temperature. Participants express differing interpretations of fundamental concepts, leading to ongoing debate.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in understanding related to quantum mechanics, the nature of kinetic energy, and the implications of theoretical constructs like Planck's temperature. There are also unresolved questions regarding the definitions and implications of absolute zero and negative temperatures.

Sdog
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Given that absolute zero is the lowest temperature possible, were all particles have zero vibration. And given that the speed of light is the highest speed any object, particle, sub atomic or not can travel. Using 2 of the most fundamental laws of physics thermodynamics and general relativity. If all sub atomic or rather if all findamental particles are vibrating at the speed of light in a solid or bumping into each other in a gas at the same speed, is this not surley the absolute maximum temperature?? Please discuss, irrelevant if praticly possible theoretically i believe this is the absolute max
 
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Sdog said:
Given that absolute zero is the lowest temperature possible, were all particles have zero vibration. And given that the speed of light is the highest speed any object, particle, sub atomic or not can travel. Using 2 of the most fundamental laws of physics thermodynamics and general relativity. If all sub atomic or rather if all findamental particles are vibrating at the speed of light in a solid or bumping into each other in a gas at the same speed, is this not surley the absolute maximum temperature?? Please discuss, irrelevant if praticly possible theoretically i believe this is the absolute max
(Thread prefix changed from "A" = Advanced / PhD level to "I" = Intermediate / Undergraduate level)

Welcome to the PF. :smile:

Have you learned about the Lorentz Factor yet? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorentz_factor
 
Sdog said:
Given that absolute zero is the lowest temperature possible, were all particles have zero vibration. And given that the speed of light is the highest speed any object, particle, sub atomic or not can travel. Using 2 of the most fundamental laws of physics thermodynamics and general relativity. If all sub atomic or rather if all findamental particles are vibrating at the speed of light in a solid or bumping into each other in a gas at the same speed, is this not surley the absolute maximum temperature?? Please discuss, irrelevant if praticly possible theoretically i believe this is the absolute max
There is. Look up Planck's temperature.
 
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Sdog said:
Given that absolute zero is the lowest temperature possible, were all particles have zero vibration. And given that the speed of light is the highest speed any object, particle, sub atomic or not can travel. Using 2 of the most fundamental laws of physics thermodynamics and general relativity. If all sub atomic or rather if all findamental particles are vibrating at the speed of light in a solid or bumping into each other in a gas at the same speed, is this not surley the absolute maximum temperature??
Temperature is related to kinetic energy. The speed of light does not provide a limit to kinetic energy; kinetic energy increases without limit as you approach it.
 
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It is in all probability linked to Planck's limit which is also based on the Limit to the Speed of Light. Temperature is a resultant of Heat which itself is a form of Energy. What happens is that if you need more Energy at a point or a defined region and start bringing that region with energy and that reaches the Planck's limit,you get a Black Hole where the laws of Physics as we know yet,break down. We can't comprehend the things beyond the Event Horizon so that is not treated with too much relevance to the Temperature. So,by and large,this is the reason why you don't see "Infinite" temperature.
 
And,Absolute Zero is possible? I don't think you can "reach" Absolute zero like that. Even if you go to the lowest possible energy states,there is always some Quantum vibrations and fluctuations as per the Heisenberg principle. In theory and principle,you cannot probably reach that point is what I believe at least according to the conventional Science we have as of now. You can probably go near and near that temperature as it becomes harder to proceed further and at one point becomes impossible. I wish to be corrected on this,though.
 
Flatland said:
There is. Look up Planck's temperature.

Planck units are not the biggest or smallest of anything. The Planck resistance is 30 ohms.

ScientistAlexandrus said:
It is in all probability linked to Planck's limit which is also based on the Limit to the Speed of Light.

See above.
 
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Sdog said:
Given that absolute zero is the lowest temperature possible, were all particles have zero vibration.
This is a very naive view of temperature. First, even at absolute zero, there can be residual zero-point energy (e.g., a molecule vibrates even at T = 0). Second, what about negative temperatures, which are actually hotter than an infinite temperature?
 
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russ_watters said:
Temperature is related to kinetic energy. The speed of light does not provide a limit to kinetic energy; kinetic energy increases without limit as you approach it.
If temmperature is the average of all particles kinetic energy in a substance and in this theoretical scenario all particles are moving at the speed of light then it does have an effect
 
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  • #10
Sdog said:
If temmperature is the average of all particles kinetic energy in a substance and in this theoretical scenario all particles are moving at the speed of light then it does have an effect
What effect is that? Did you understand what I wrote? I should add that particles can't move at the speed of light. Do you understand why and how that relates to what I said?
 
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Vanadium 50 said:
Planck units are not the biggest or smallest of anything. The Planck resistance is 30 ohms.
See above.
Planck's temperature has a specific unit of 1.417×10^32 kelvin
 
  • #12
Flatland said:
Planck's temperature has a specific unit of 1.417×10^32 kelvin

So what?
 
  • #13
weirdoguy said:
So what?

I can say the same about your previous comment.
 
  • #14
It was my first comment. Besides, you said that Planck temperature is the highest possible, which is not true. Then you gave its value, which does not change the fact that it's not the highest temperature, so I wonder what's your point.
 

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