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Temperature Converter

Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin.

Temperature Converter

Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin.

Understanding the Converter

Temperature is a fundamental physical quantity that expresses hot and cold. It is a proportional measure of the average kinetic energy of the random motions of the constituent particles of matter. This converter simplifies switching between the three most common temperature scales.

Formulas Used

FromToFormula
CelsiusFahrenheit(°C × 9/5) + 32
FahrenheitCelsius(°F - 32) × 5/9
CelsiusKelvin°C + 273.15
KelvinCelsiusK - 273.15
FahrenheitKelvin(°F - 32) × 5/9 + 273.15
KelvinFahrenheit(K - 273.15) × 9/5 + 32

Related Converters

A Guide to Temperature Scales

The three major temperature scales—Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin—each have unique origins and applications that make them suitable for different contexts.

Celsius (°C)

The Celsius scale is part of the metric system and is the standard for most of the world. It is based on the freezing and boiling points of water, with 0°C being the freezing point and 100°C being the boiling point at one standard atmosphere of pressure. Its intuitive reference points make it ideal for everyday weather, cooking, and scientific work not requiring an absolute scale.

Fahrenheit (°F)

Primarily used in the United States and a few other countries, the Fahrenheit scale was developed by Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit. He set 0°F as the freezing point of a brine solution and initially used human body temperature as an upper reference point. On this scale, water freezes at 32°F and boils at 212°F. While less common globally, its smaller degree increments are sometimes preferred for describing ambient weather temperatures with more perceived precision.

Kelvin (K)

The Kelvin scale is the base unit of thermodynamic temperature in the International System of Units (SI). It is an absolute scale, meaning its zero point, 0 K, is absolute zero—the theoretical point at which all thermal motion ceases. Because it lacks negative numbers, Kelvin is the standard for scientific and engineering applications, particularly in fields like thermodynamics, astronomy, and materials science. A change of one Kelvin is equivalent to a change of one degree Celsius.

Common Conversions at a Glance

Common ReferenceCelsiusFahrenheit
Absolute Zero-273.15°C-459.67°F
Water Freezes0°C32°F
Room Temperature20-22°C68-72°F
Human Body Temperature37°C98.6°F
Water Boils100°C212°F

Frequently Asked Questions

What is absolute zero?

Absolute zero is the lowest possible temperature, where nothing could be colder and no heat energy remains in a substance. It is 0 K on the Kelvin scale, -273.15°C on the Celsius scale, and -459.67°F on the Fahrenheit scale. It is the point where particles have minimal vibrational motion.

Why isn't Kelvin measured in degrees?

Unlike Celsius and Fahrenheit, Kelvin is an absolute scale with a true zero point. It measures thermodynamic temperature directly. For this reason, it is referred to simply as "Kelvin" (K), not "degrees Kelvin." A change of 1 K is the same magnitude as a change of 1°C.

Is there a point where Celsius and Fahrenheit are equal?

Yes, the Celsius and Fahrenheit scales meet at -40 degrees. So, -40°C is equal to -40°F. It's the only point where the two scales intersect.

Which temperature scale is used in science?

For scientific work, the Kelvin (K) scale is the standard because it is an absolute scale. However, Celsius is also widely used in many scientific contexts, especially when absolute temperature is not required, as the degree size is the same as Kelvin.

Summary

The Temperature Converter is a simple yet essential utility for accurately converting between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin. It is a vital tool for scientists, engineers, travelers, and anyone needing to interpret or communicate temperature data across different systems.

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Temperature Converter

Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin.

How to use Temperature Converter

Step-by-step guide to using the Temperature Converter:

  1. Enter your values. Input the required values in the calculator form
  2. Calculate. The calculator will automatically compute and display your results
  3. Review results. Review the calculated results and any additional information provided

Frequently asked questions

How do I use the Temperature Converter?

Simply enter your values in the input fields and the calculator will automatically compute the results. The Temperature Converter is designed to be user-friendly and provide instant calculations.

Is the Temperature Converter free to use?

Yes, the Temperature Converter is completely free to use. No registration or payment is required.

Can I use this calculator on mobile devices?

Yes, the Temperature Converter is fully responsive and works perfectly on mobile phones, tablets, and desktop computers.

Are the results from Temperature Converter accurate?

Yes, our calculators use standard formulas and are regularly tested for accuracy. However, results should be used for informational purposes and not as a substitute for professional advice.