The Race for Absolute Zero: Liquefying Gas

The video explores the concept of absolute zero, the coldest possible temperature where atomic motion ceases. It highlights the early 20th-century competition between physicists James Dewar and Heike Kamerlingh Onnes to achieve extreme cold. Dewar first succeeded in liquefying hydrogen in 1898, reaching -252°C. However, Onnes eventually surpassed him by liquefying helium in 1908, achieving -269°C, and won the Nobel Prize in 1913. The pursuit of absolute zero continues to intrigue physicists.

What is Absolute Zero and at what temperature does it occur?

Who were the two physicists competing to reach new extremes of cold at the turn of the 20th century?

What was the significant achievement of Dewar in 1898?

What temperature did Onus achieve when he liquefied helium?

What recognition did Onus receive for his achievement in 1913?