Temperature Converter
Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, and Rankine
Temperature Conversion
Convert between different temperature scales with precision
About Temperature Converter
Temperature conversion is essential for science, cooking, weather, and international communication across different temperature scales.
Why Use This Tool?
- ✓ Instant conversion between 4 temperature scales including scientific units (Kelvin, Rankine)
- ✓ Bidirectional input - enter temperature in either field for instant conversion
- ✓ Precision to 2 decimal places ensuring accuracy for scientific calculations and cooking
- ✓ 100% client-side processing - your data never leaves your browser, ensuring complete privacy
- ✓ Mobile-friendly interface works perfectly on any device, anywhere
Temperature Scales
- Celsius (°C): Water freezes at 0°C, boils at 100°C - used worldwide
- Fahrenheit (°F): Water freezes at 32°F, boils at 212°F - used in US
- Kelvin (K): Absolute temperature scale starting at absolute zero (-273.15°C)
- Rankine (°R): Absolute scale using Fahrenheit degrees, rarely used
Conversion Formulas
- °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32
- °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9
- K = °C + 273.15
- °R = °F + 459.67
Common Reference Points
- Absolute Zero: -273.15°C = -459.67°F = 0K
- Water Freezing: 0°C = 32°F = 273.15K
- Room Temperature: ~20°C = ~68°F = ~293K
- Body Temperature: 37°C = 98.6°F = 310K
- Water Boiling: 100°C = 212°F = 373.15K
Common Questions
- Q: When should I use Kelvin versus Celsius? Use Kelvin for scientific calculations, especially in chemistry and physics where absolute temperature matters. Kelvin starts at absolute zero (0K = -273.15°C), making it ideal for thermodynamics. Use Celsius for everyday measurements like weather, cooking, and body temperature.
- Q: Why does Fahrenheit use 32° as the freezing point? Daniel Fahrenheit's original scale used three reference points: 0° for a brine solution freezing point, 32° for water freezing, and 96° for average human body temperature. This makes the scale more granular than Celsius for everyday temperatures.
- Q: What is absolute zero and why is it important? Absolute zero (-273.15°C, -459.67°F, or 0K) is the theoretical lowest temperature where all molecular motion stops. It's impossible to reach but crucial for understanding thermodynamics and quantum physics.
- Q: Are these conversions accurate enough for scientific work? Yes, our converter uses industry-standard formulas with precision to 2 decimal places, which is sufficient for most scientific and engineering applications. For ultra-precise work requiring more decimal places, consider specialized scientific software.
- Q: Can I convert negative temperatures? Absolutely! Our converter handles the full range of temperatures, from absolute zero to extreme heat. This is especially useful for scientific applications and extreme weather conditions.
Pro Tips & Best Practices
- 💡 Quick mental math: To estimate °F to °C, subtract 30 and divide by 2. It's not exact but close enough for quick checks (e.g., 68°F ≈ (68-30)/2 = 19°C, actual is 20°C).
- 💡 Cooking temperatures: Always double-check your recipe's temperature scale before baking. A cake at 180°C is perfect; at 180°F it won't even cook! US recipes use °F, European recipes typically use °C.
- 💡 Weather reference points: 0°C = 32°F (freezing), 25°C = 77°F (pleasant), 37°C = 98.6°F (body temp). Memorize these for quick international weather comparisons.
- 💡 Kelvin has no degree symbol: It's '273 K' not '273°K'. This is because Kelvin is an absolute scale, not a relative one like Celsius or Fahrenheit.
- 💡 For scientific accuracy: When working with gas laws or thermodynamic equations, always convert to Kelvin first. Most scientific formulas assume absolute temperature.
When to Use This Tool
- International Travel: Converting weather forecasts when traveling between countries using different temperature scales
- Cooking & Baking: Converting recipe temperatures from US cookbooks (°F) to European ovens (°C) or vice versa
- Scientific Research: Converting between Celsius and Kelvin for chemistry, physics, or engineering calculations
- HVAC & Climate Control: Setting thermostats when specifications are in different units
- Medical Applications: Converting body temperature readings between scales for international health records
- Weather Reporting: Understanding temperature forecasts when consuming international news or traveling abroad
Related Tools
- Try our Length Converter for converting distances and measurements in scientific experiments
- Use our Volume Converter when working with liquids in different measurement systems alongside temperature
- Check our Pressure Converter for complete gas law calculations requiring both temperature and pressure conversions
- Explore our Scientific Calculator for advanced thermodynamic calculations using converted temperatures
Quick Tips & Navigation
- Need another measurement? Length Converter handles meters, miles, and feet.
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