if it were possible for an object to reach absolute zero, would it continue to exist?

Question

ok, so we're all familiar with the theoretical temperature of absolute zero.

at −459.67°F there is a complete absence of movement among particles.

taking this concept into the quantum world becomes a very interesting thing to ponder. if there is no kinetic energy at the sub atomic level wouldn't the science of quantum probability fall apart, thereby actually erasing matter?

i don't know, think about it

well onlyme mr g

if quantum probability stops, the probability of it existing becomes zero.

Answer 1

Maybe not kinetic energy but there is always potential energy, I don't quite understand how you think this would equate into the erasure of matter though?

Answer 2

Just because an object doesn't move(no energy), it doesn't mean the the object dissapears. And even if an object were to reach absolute zero, that does not have to conflict with quantum mechanics, as proven by the fact that gravity still effects it. But remember that, energy = mc2, any visible matter is concentrated energy, thus it cannot dissapear.

Answer 3

No. At absolute zero, matter is in its ground state. The ground state still has positive potential and kinetic energy; it's just the lowest it can be. The ground state of a harmonic oscillator of frequency omega, for example, has energy h_bar*omega/2.

Answer 4

The other responders are correct, but didn't pick up on the essential flaw in your reasoning. Temperature is relative to molecular motion, not sub-atomic. Going to absolute zero will not inhibit atomic and/or sub-atomic dynamics. You need an "atom smasher" to do that, but keep your ears covered!