Temperature Converter - Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin
Temperature Conversion
Quick Reference
Conversion Formulas
Celsius to Fahrenheit
°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32Fahrenheit to Celsius
°C = (°F - 32) × 5/9Celsius to Kelvin
K = °C + 273.15Kelvin to Celsius
°C = K - 273.15Temperature Converter - Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin
How It Works
Temperature conversion is a fundamental process in science, engineering, and everyday life. Our temperature converter allows you to instantly convert between the three main temperature scales: Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F), and Kelvin (K).
The conversion formulas are based on mathematical relationships between these scales:
- Celsius to Fahrenheit: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32
- Fahrenheit to Celsius: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9
- Celsius to Kelvin: K = °C + 273.15
- Kelvin to Celsius: °C = K - 273.15
Simply enter a value in any temperature field, and our calculator will automatically convert it to the other two scales with precision up to two decimal places.
History of Temperature Scales
Celsius Scale
Developed by Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius in 1742, the Celsius scale was originally inverted (0° for boiling point, 100° for freezing point). It was later reversed by Carl Linnaeus. The scale is based on the freezing point (0°C) and boiling point (100°C) of water at standard atmospheric pressure.
Fahrenheit Scale
Created by German physicist Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit in 1724, this scale was based on three reference points: the freezing point of brine (0°F), the freezing point of water (32°F), and human body temperature (originally 96°F, later adjusted to 98.6°F). It remains the primary temperature scale in the United States.
Kelvin Scale
Proposed by Lord Kelvin (William Thomson) in 1848, the Kelvin scale is an absolute thermodynamic temperature scale that starts at absolute zero (-273.15°C). It is the base unit of temperature in the International System of Units (SI) and is widely used in scientific and engineering applications.
Practical Examples
Weather & Climate
- • Comfortable room temperature: 20°C = 68°F = 293.15K
- • Hot summer day: 35°C = 95°F = 308.15K
- • Cold winter day: -10°C = 14°F = 263.15K
- • Normal body temperature: 37°C = 98.6°F = 310.15K
Cooking & Food
- • Boiling water: 100°C = 212°F = 373.15K
- • Typical baking temperature: 180°C = 356°F = 453.15K
- • Food safety temperature: 75°C = 167°F = 348.15K
- • Freezer temperature: -18°C = 0°F = 255.15K
Frequently Asked Questions
Which temperature scale is most scientifically accurate?
Kelvin is considered the most scientifically accurate temperature scale because it is an absolute scale that starts at absolute zero, where all molecular motion ceases. It is the base unit of temperature in the International System of Units (SI).
Why does the United States still use Fahrenheit?
The United States continues to use Fahrenheit primarily due to historical tradition and resistance to change. The Fahrenheit scale was well-established before the widespread adoption of Celsius, and the cost of converting all systems and re-educating the population would be considerable.
What is absolute zero?
Absolute zero is the theoretical lowest possible temperature, where particles have minimal kinetic energy. It equals -273.15°C, -459.67°F, or 0K. At this temperature, all molecular motion would theoretically cease.
How accurate is this temperature converter?
Our temperature converter provides accurate results up to two decimal places, which is sufficient for most practical applications. The calculations are based on internationally accepted standard conversion formulas.
Can there be negative temperatures in Kelvin?
No, there cannot be negative temperatures in Kelvin because the Kelvin scale starts at absolute zero (0K). However, negative temperatures are possible and common in Celsius and Fahrenheit scales.
Which countries use which temperature scales?
Most countries worldwide use Celsius for everyday temperature measurements. The United States, Bahamas, and a few territories primarily use Fahrenheit. Kelvin is used universally in scientific and engineering contexts.
Are there any tricks to remember conversion formulas?
For Celsius to Fahrenheit: multiply by 9, divide by 5, then add 32. For Fahrenheit to Celsius: subtract 32, multiply by 5, then divide by 9. For Kelvin: simply add or subtract 273.15 to/from Celsius.
Are there other temperature scales?
Yes, there are other scales like Rankine (based on Fahrenheit but absolute like Kelvin), Réaumur (historically used in Europe), and Rømer. However, Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin are the most commonly used today.
Comments