kelvin

kel·vin

noun \ˈkel-vən\

Definition of KELVIN

: the base unit of temperature in the International System of Units that is equal to {frac1/273.16} of the Kelvin scale temperature of the triple point of water and also to the Celsius degree

Biographical Note for KELVIN

Thom·son \ˈtäm(p)-sən\ , Sir William (1st Baron Kelvin of Largs) (1824–1907), British physicist. One of the most influential scientists of the 19th century, Thomson made important contributions in almost every branch of the physical sciences. He was a prolific inventor. He created the first physics laboratory in Great Britain and was the first to teach physics in a lab. He developed the Kelvin scale in 1848. From 1848 on he did thermodynamic research, often in collaboration with James P. Joule. Between 1851–54 Thomson helped to formulate the first two laws of thermodynamics. During the next few years he laid the theoretical foundations for submarine telegraphic transmission. He was the leading scientist involved in the laying of the transatlantic cable. He also made discoveries in electromagnetism and investigated wave motion and vortex motion.