How to Convert Temperature Units
Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin instantly. Our temperature converter is essential for cooking, weather, science, and international travel where different temperature scales are used.
Understanding Temperature Scales
Temperature measures how hot or cold something is. Celsius (°C) is used worldwide and sets water's freezing point at 0° and boiling at 100°. Fahrenheit (°F) is used in the US, with water freezing at 32° and boiling at 212°. Kelvin (K) is used in science, starting at absolute zero.
Temperature Conversion Formulas
Celsius to Fahrenheit: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. Fahrenheit to Celsius: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9. Celsius to Kelvin: K = °C + 273.15.
Example:
Convert 25°C to Fahrenheit: (25 × 9/5) + 32 = 45 + 32 = 77°F. Convert 98.6°F to Celsius: (98.6 - 32) × 5/9 = 66.6 × 5/9 = 37°C.
Common Use Cases
Real-world applications for this calculator
Cooking
Convert oven temperatures between Celsius and Fahrenheit when following international recipes.
Weather
Understand weather forecasts when traveling between countries using different temperature scales.
Health
Convert body temperature readings between scales. Normal body temperature is 37°C or 98.6°F.
Tips
- Quick estimate: Double Celsius and add 30 for approximate Fahrenheit.
- Room temperature is about 20-22°C (68-72°F).
- Body temperature: 37°C = 98.6°F. Fever starts around 38°C (100.4°F).
- Oven temperatures: 150°C=300°F, 180°C=350°F, 200°C=400°F, 220°C=425°F.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
Multiply the Celsius temperature by 9/5 (or 1.8), then add 32. Formula: °F = (°C × 1.8) + 32. For example, 20°C = (20 × 1.8) + 32 = 68°F.
How do I convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature, then multiply by 5/9. Formula: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9. For example, 77°F = (77 - 32) × 5/9 = 25°C.
What temperature is the same in Celsius and Fahrenheit?
-40 degrees is the same in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. This is the only point where the two scales intersect: -40°C = -40°F.
What is absolute zero?
Absolute zero is 0 Kelvin, equal to -273.15°C or -459.67°F. It's the theoretical lowest possible temperature where all molecular motion stops.
What oven temperature is 180°C in Fahrenheit?
180°C equals 356°F. This is a common moderate oven temperature for baking. Use the formula: (180 × 1.8) + 32 = 356°F.