According to the third law of thermodynamics, what happens to processes as temperature approaches absolute zero?

As temperature approaches absolute zero, the third law of thermodynamics states that the entropy of a perfect crystal approaches zero, meaning that the amount of disorder in the system decreases significantly. At absolute zero (0 Kelvin), it is theorized that the particles in a perfect crystal would be in their lowest energy state, resulting in no thermal energy and, therefore, no kinetic energy to drive processes. As temperature decreases, the motion of particles slows down, and eventually, at absolute zero, all thermodynamic processes cease entirely.

This understanding is crucial in thermodynamics because it illustrates the limits of physical systems at extremely low temperatures, where normal molecular activity comes to a halt. Thus, at absolute zero, there would be no movement or change occurring in the system, validating the correct choice that all processes cease.