The freezing point is a fundamental concept in physics and chemistry, representing the temperature at which a liquid transforms into a solid. In the Celsius scale, which is widely used in scientific and everyday applications, the freezing point of water is defined as 0 degrees Celsius (°C). This temperature is a standard reference point for measuring the freezing points of other substances.
The Celsius scale is named after the Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius, who first proposed it in the 18th century. In this scale, the freezing point of water is set at 0°C, while the boiling point is set at 100°C. The interval between these two reference points is divided into 100 equal parts, with each part representing one degree Celsius. This scale is used to measure temperatures in a wide range of fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and meteorology.
Key Points
- The freezing point of water is defined as 0°C in the Celsius scale.
- The Celsius scale is a widely used temperature scale in scientific and everyday applications.
- The freezing point is an important reference point for measuring the freezing points of other substances.
- The Celsius scale is divided into 100 equal parts between the freezing and boiling points of water.
- Understanding the freezing point in Celsius is essential for various scientific and practical applications.
Freezing Points of Different Substances

Different substances have different freezing points, which are determined by their chemical composition and molecular structure. For example, the freezing point of mercury is -38.8°C, while the freezing point of ethanol is -114.1°C. The freezing point of a substance can be affected by factors such as pressure, purity, and the presence of impurities.
The freezing point of a substance can be measured using various methods, including the use of thermometers, calorimeters, and cryometers. These methods involve cooling the substance to its freezing point and measuring the temperature at which the phase transition occurs. The freezing point can also be determined using theoretical models and simulations, which take into account the molecular interactions and thermodynamic properties of the substance.
Factors Affecting Freezing Point
The freezing point of a substance can be affected by various factors, including pressure, purity, and the presence of impurities. An increase in pressure can lower the freezing point of a substance, while a decrease in pressure can raise it. The presence of impurities can also affect the freezing point, as they can alter the molecular interactions and thermodynamic properties of the substance.
Substance | Freezing Point (°C) |
---|---|
Water | 0 |
Mercury | -38.8 |
Ethanol | -114.1 |
Acetone | -95.4 |
Carbon dioxide | -56.6 |

Applications of Freezing Point

The freezing point has numerous applications in various fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. In physics, the freezing point is used to study the properties of solids and liquids, and to develop theories of phase transitions. In chemistry, the freezing point is used to determine the purity of substances and to study the properties of solutions.
In biology, the freezing point is used to study the effects of temperature on living organisms, and to develop methods for preserving tissues and organs. In engineering, the freezing point is used to design cooling systems, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, and to develop materials with specific thermal properties.
Importance of Freezing Point in Daily Life
The freezing point is an important concept in daily life, as it affects the way we live, work, and interact with our environment. For example, the freezing point of water is essential for the formation of ice, which is used in various applications, including food preservation, cooling systems, and winter sports. The freezing point of other substances, such as fuels and lubricants, is also important for the operation of vehicles and machinery.
What is the freezing point of water in Celsius?
+The freezing point of water is defined as 0°C in the Celsius scale.
How does pressure affect the freezing point of a substance?
+An increase in pressure can lower the freezing point of a substance, while a decrease in pressure can raise it.
What are some applications of freezing point in daily life?
+The freezing point is essential for various applications, including food preservation, cooling systems, and winter sports.