triple point

thermodynamic point where three matter phases exist

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The triple point is the specific temperature and pressure at which all three states of matter—solid, liquid, and gas—can exist together in perfect balance. This point is scientifically important because it's used as a precise reference standard for measuring temperature and defining the scale we use on thermometers.

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Commons category: Triple point

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A typical phase diagram. The solid green line applies to most substances; the dashed green line gives the anomalous behavior of water

In thermodynamics, the triple point of a substance is the temperature and pressure at which the three phases (gas, liquid, and solid) of that substance coexist in thermodynamic equilibrium. It is that temperature and pressure at which the sublimation, fusion, and vapourisation curves meet. For example, the triple point of mercury occurs at a temperature of −38.8 °C (−37.8 °F) and a pressure of 0.165 mPa.