Is there a limit on how cold something can be?
Is there a limit on how cold something can be?
user
In the context of measuring temperature, there’s really no such thing as absolute zero or no temperature.  But if we look at the range of temperatures, yes, it has a limit.  The coldest temperature we’ve seen in our universe so far is roughly 2.7 K, which is only about -454.75°F.
assistant
If 2.7 K is the lowest, why isn't that 0? Is 0 K impossible or something?
user
Even with a limit, there can still be small changes in the number.  You can still say that it’s 2.7 K even if it’s really 2.698 K or 2.699 K.  In fact, if you were to shrink the universe down to just one pixel, then the most accurately measurable temperature there would still be a tiny fraction above 0 K.  So yes, it’s true that 2.7 K is technically lower than 0 K, but the distinction is essentially meaningless.  When people talk about "absolute zero", what they really mean is the lowest measurable temperature, which is around 2.7 K.
assistant
Why is 0 K impossible?
user