Celsius Converter
Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin temperature scales. Perfect for cooking, weather, science, and international travel.
How do I convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit, use the formula: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. Multiply the Celsius temperature by 9/5 (1.8), then add 32. Examples: 0°C = (0 × 1.8) + 32 = 32°F (freezing point). 100°C = (100 × 1.8) + 32 = 212°F (boiling point). 20°C = (20 × 1.8) + 32 = 68°F (room temperature). 37°C = (37 × 1.8) + 32 = 98.6°F (body temperature). For quick mental math: double the Celsius and add 30 for a rough estimate.
What is the formula for Celsius to Kelvin?
Converting Celsius to Kelvin is simple: K = °C + 273.15. Kelvin is an absolute temperature scale where 0 K represents absolute zero (-273.15°C). Examples: 0°C = 273.15 K (freezing point of water). 100°C = 373.15 K (boiling point of water). 25°C = 298.15 K (room temperature). -273.15°C = 0 K (absolute zero). Unlike Fahrenheit/Celsius, Kelvin does not use the degree symbol (°) - just K. Kelvin is the SI unit for temperature and is commonly used in scientific contexts like physics and chemistry.
What are the key temperature reference points?
Essential temperature references across scales: Water freezes: 0°C = 32°F = 273.15 K. Water boils: 100°C = 212°F = 373.15 K. Body temperature: 37°C = 98.6°F = 310.15 K. Room temperature: 20-22°C = 68-72°F = 293-295 K. Absolute zero: -273.15°C = -459.67°F = 0 K. Comfortable summer day: 25°C = 77°F. Hot day: 35°C = 95°F. Cold day: 0°C = 32°F. Bake/cook: 180°C = 350°F = 453 K. These reference points help quickly estimate conversions.
Why does the US use Fahrenheit while most countries use Celsius?
The US uses Fahrenheit due to historical adoption: Daniel Fahrenheit invented the scale in 1724. The US was an early adopter, and the system became entrenched. Celsius was invented in 1742 but gained widespread international adoption later with the metric system movement. Why Fahrenheit persists in the US: Cultural inertia (people are familiar with it). Practical for weather (0-100°F covers most human experience). No government mandate to switch. Costs of conversion (road signs, thermostats, industry). Most US scientific fields use Celsius, while weather and cooking use Fahrenheit.