Absolute Temperature and Absolute Zero

A point has been determined on the thermometer scale, by theoretical considerations, that is called the absolute zero and beyond which a further decrease in temperature is inconceivable. This point is located at −273.15 degrees Celsius or −459.67 degrees F. A temperature reckoned from this point, instead of from the zero on the ordinary thermometers, is called absolute temperature. Absolute temperature in degrees C is known as “degrees Kelvin” or the “Kelvin scale” (K) and absolute temperature in degrees F is known as “degrees Rankine” or the “Rankine scale” (R).