Near absolute zero, a substance will typically be in which state?

When a substance is close to absolute zero, it is usually in the solid state. At the lowest temperature, which is roughly -273.15°C or 0 Kelvin, where a substance’s thermal energy is negligible, is absolute zero. Particles lose the majority of their energy and mobility at such low temperatures, which confines them to fixed locations inside the highly organized structure that characterizes a solid.

Comparison to Other States of Matter

At greater temperatures, particles have enough kinetic energy to move freely, forming liquids, gasses, or plasmas. However, approaching absolute zero, this energy is so low that free motion is unsustainable. For example:

  • While some substances (such as liquid helium) can remain in a liquid state at extremely low temperatures, they typically require some kinetic energy to flow. Even near absolute zero, helium solidifies under extreme pressure.
  • Gases and plasmas are high-energy states in which particles can flow freely or even ionize. Near absolute zero, there is insufficient energy for ionization or particles to remain in gaseous states.