In a phase diagram, which of the following is the term used for a substance held at a temperature and pressure where the solid, liquid, and gaseous states of a substance exist simultaneously?
A. Triple point
B. Critical temperature
C. Critical point
D. Absolute zero
Triple point.
In a phase diagram, the term used for a substance held at a temperature and pressure where the solid, liquid, and gaseous states of a substance exist simultaneously is the triple point.
The triple point is a unique point on a phase diagram where the three states of matter (solid, liquid, and gas) can coexist in equilibrium.
At the triple point, the temperature and pressure of the substance are fixed.
Option B, critical temperature, is the temperature at which a gas cannot be liquefied, regardless of the pressure applied.
It is a characteristic property of a substance and is typically higher than the boiling point of the liquid at standard pressure.
Option C, critical point, is the point on a phase diagram where the liquid and gas phases of a substance become indistinguishable.
At the critical point, the distinction between the liquid and gas phases disappears, and the substance becomes a supercritical fluid.
Option D, absolute zero, is the theoretical temperature at which all matter has zero thermal energy.
At absolute zero, all substances are in their solid state, but it is not relevant to a phase diagram, as it is a temperature where no transitions between states occur.
In summary, the term used for a substance held at a temperature and pressure where the solid, liquid, and gaseous states of a substance exist simultaneously in a phase diagram is the triple point, whereas the other options provided are not relevant or are characteristic properties of substances in different contexts.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is A.