Convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit or Celsius
The Kelvin scale is a thermodynamic temperature scale where zero defines the point at which molecules give off no heat and all thermal motion ceases. In order to convert Kelvin measurements into Fahrenheit or Celsius, a simple plug-and-chug is all that's called for.
Contents
Steps
Convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit
- Write down the formula for converting Kelvin to Fahrenheit. The formula is: ºF = 1.8 x (K - 273) + 32.
- Write down the Kelvin temperature. The Kelvin temperature in this example is 373 K. Remember that you should not use degrees when measuring the temperature in Kelvin.
- Subtract 273 from the Kelvin temperature. Just subtract 273 from 373. 373 - 273 = 100.
- Multiply the result by 9/5 or 1.8. Now, multiply the answer, 100, by 1.8. 100 * 1.8 = 180.
- Add 32 to your final answer. Just add 32 to 180 to get your final answer. 180 + 32 = 212. Therefore, 373 K = 212ºF.
Convert Kelvin to Celsius
- Write down the formula for converting Kelvin to Celsius. The formula is: ºC = K - 273.
- Write down the Kelvin temperature. In this case, let's use 273 Kelvin.
- Subtract 273 from the Kelvin temperature. Just subtract 273 from 273. 273 - 273 = 0. Therefore, 273K = 0 ºC.
Tips
- Scientists generally omit the word "degree" when using Kelvin. Say '373 Kelvin' instead of '373 degrees Kelvin'.
- For very precise conversions use 273.15 instead of 273.
- To convert from Fahrenheit when there's no need to be precise I just take the temperature in Fahrenheit, subtract 32, and divide by 2. Eg: (100F-32)/2=34°c.
- Any temperature difference will come out the same for Kelvin and Celsius. For instance the temperature difference between boiling water and melting ice can be calculated as follows:
- 100 ºC - 0 ºC = 100 ºC or
- 373.15 K - 273.15 K = 100 K
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