Temperature Unit Converter
The temperature unit converter allows you to convert between commonly used temperature measurements such as Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, and Rankine. This tool is useful for scientists, engineers, cooks, travelers, and anyone working with temperature measurements. Select a conversion below or choose from popular temperature unit conversions.
Supported Temperature Units
| Unit | Short Form | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kelvin | K | SI base unit of temperature, absolute scale starting at absolute zero |
| Celsius | degC | Metric scale, 0°C is water’s freezing point, 100°C is boiling point |
| Fahrenheit | degF | Imperial scale, 32°F is water’s freezing point, 212°F is boiling point |
| Rankine | degR | Absolute scale using Fahrenheit degrees, 0°R is absolute zero |
Popular Temperature Conversions
- Celsius to Fahrenheit
- Fahrenheit to Celsius
- Kelvin to Celsius
- Celsius to Kelvin
- Fahrenheit to Kelvin
- Rankine to Fahrenheit
How Temperature Unit Conversion Works
Temperature conversions involve both scaling and offset adjustments, unlike most other unit conversions.
For example, to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. To convert Celsius to Kelvin: K = °C + 273.15.
Our temperature converter uses accurate conversion formulas to ensure precise results for scientific, cooking, and weather applications.
Common Use Cases
- Weather forecasting and reporting
- Cooking and baking temperature conversion
- Scientific research and experiments
- HVAC system settings
- International travel temperature understanding
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the temperature unit converter?
Our converter uses precise conversion formulas based on international standards. Results are accurate to multiple decimal places, suitable for professional use in science, engineering, and culinary applications.
What is the formula to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit, multiply by 9/5 (or 1.8) and add 32: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. For example, 20°C equals 68°F.
What is the formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 and multiply by 5/9: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9. For example, 68°F equals 20°C.
What is Kelvin used for?
Kelvin is the SI unit of temperature used in scientific work. It’s an absolute scale starting at absolute zero (-273.15°C), where all molecular motion theoretically stops. Scientists prefer Kelvin because it simplifies many thermodynamic equations.
What is absolute zero?
Absolute zero is the lowest possible temperature, where all molecular motion stops. It equals 0 Kelvin, -273.15°C, or -459.67°F. It cannot be reached in practice, but scientists have gotten extremely close.
Why is Fahrenheit still used in the United States?
Fahrenheit remains in use in the United States primarily due to historical convention and the cost of changing infrastructure. Most other countries use Celsius as part of the metric system.
What is the Rankine scale?
The Rankine scale is an absolute temperature scale using Fahrenheit-sized degrees. It starts at absolute zero (0°R) and is used in some engineering applications in the United States. To convert Fahrenheit to Rankine: °R = °F + 459.67.
At what temperature are Celsius and Fahrenheit equal?
Celsius and Fahrenheit scales intersect at -40°. That is, -40°C equals -40°F.