S

SmartUnitConvert

Triple Point Temperature Converter (K) – Water, Helium, Nitrogen, Oxygen

Convert triple point temperatures between Kelvin, Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Rankine. Free online calculator for scientific research, thermodynamics, and phase equilibrium studies.
← Back to Temperature Converter | Home

Triple Point Temperature Converter – Scientific Reference Calculator

Kelvin (K)

273.16

Celsius (°C)

0.01

Fahrenheit (°F)

32.018

Rankine (°R)

491.688

Water (H₂O) Triple Point

Standard reference for temperature scales

All Triple Point Temperatures

Water (H₂O)

273.16 K
0.01 °C
32.018 °F
491.688 °R

Standard reference for temperature scales

Helium (He)

2.17 K
-270.98 °C
-455.76 °F
3.906 °R

Lowest known triple point

Nitrogen (N₂)

63.15 K
-210 °C
-346 °F
113.67 °R

Common cryogenic reference

Oxygen (O₂)

54.36 K
-218.79 °C
-361.82 °F
97.85 °R

Important for medical applications

Argon (Ar)

83.81 K
-189.34 °C
-308.81 °F
150.86 °R

Inert gas reference point

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

216.55 K
-56.6 °C
-69.88 °F
389.79 °R

Dry ice formation temperature

Triple Point Temperature Converter for Scientific Research and Thermodynamics

Instantly convert triple point temperatures between different temperature scales with this free online calculator. Perfect for scientific research, thermodynamics studies, phase equilibrium research, and temperature scale calibration. Uses exact conversion formulas for precise results.

How to Use

Select a substance from the dropdown to see its triple point temperature in all four scales (Kelvin, Celsius, Fahrenheit, Rankine). Copy individual values for use in research papers and calculations.

Triple Point: Definition, Scientific Importance, and Applications

Definition

The triple point is the unique temperature and pressure condition where three phases of a substance (solid, liquid, and gas) coexist in thermodynamic equilibrium. At the triple point, all three phases can exist simultaneously, making it a fundamental reference point for temperature scales and scientific measurements.

Scientific Importance

  • Temperature Scale Definition: The triple point of water (273.16K) defines the Kelvin scale and is used to calibrate thermometers.
  • Phase Equilibrium Studies: Essential for understanding phase transitions and material properties.
  • Thermodynamic Research: Provides fixed reference points for scientific experiments.
  • Calibration Standards: Used in laboratories worldwide for temperature measurement accuracy.
  • Material Science: Critical for studying phase diagrams and material behavior.

Common Triple Points

SubstanceTemperature (K)Pressure (kPa)Application
Water (H₂O)273.160.6117Temperature scale definition
Helium (He)2.175.0Cryogenic research
Nitrogen (N₂)63.1512.5Industrial cooling
Oxygen (O₂)54.360.15Medical applications

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the water triple point exactly 273.16K?
The water triple point was chosen as 273.16K to maintain the same degree size as Celsius while setting absolute zero at 0K. This makes 0°C = 273.15K, with the triple point slightly above freezing at 273.16K.
How do triple points differ from critical points?
Triple points occur at lower temperatures where three phases coexist, while critical points occur at higher temperatures where liquid and gas phases become indistinguishable. Critical points are typically at much higher pressures than triple points.
What makes helium's triple point so low?
Helium has the lowest triple point because it's the lightest noble gas with very weak intermolecular forces. Its atoms are so small and non-polar that they require extremely low temperatures to form a liquid phase.
How are triple points used in industry?
Triple points are used for: calibrating precision thermometers, defining temperature standards, cryogenic storage systems, phase change materials, and ensuring accurate temperature measurements in scientific and industrial processes.

Related Temperature Tools

🌡️

Celsius to Fahrenheit

Convert °C to °F

🔬

Kelvin to Celsius

Convert K to °C