Fahrenheit to Kelvin

Fahrenheit to Kelvin: A Guide to Temperature Conversion

Fahrenheit and Kelvin are two temperature scales commonly used in scientific and engineering applications. While Fahrenheit is the standard temperature scale in the United States, Kelvin is the standard unit of temperature in the International System of Units (SI). Converting temperatures between Fahrenheit and Kelvin can be useful for scientific calculations and understanding physical phenomena.

In this article, we will explore the differences between Fahrenheit and Kelvin, the formulas for converting temperatures between the two scales, and some common temperature conversions.

Fahrenheit vs. Kelvin: What's the difference?

Fahrenheit and Kelvin are both temperature scales that measure the amount of heat in a substance or object. However, they use different units of measurement and have different zero points.

The Fahrenheit scale uses degrees Fahrenheit (°F) to measure temperature. The freezing point of water is defined as 32°F, and the boiling point of water is defined as 212°F.

The Kelvin scale, on the other hand, uses kelvins (K) to measure temperature. The zero point of the Kelvin scale (0 K) is defined as absolute zero, the theoretical point at which all molecular motion ceases. Absolute zero is equivalent to -459.67°F.

Formulas for Converting Fahrenheit to Kelvin

To convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin, you can use the following formula:

K = (°F + 459.67) × 5/9

This formula involves adding 459.67 to the Fahrenheit temperature, multiplying the result by 5/9, and then converting the result to Kelvin.

For example, to convert 68°F to Kelvin, you would use the formula:

K = (68 + 459.67) × 5/9
K = 527.67 × 5/9
K = 293.15

Therefore, 68°F is equal to 293.15 K.

Formulas for Converting Kelvin to Fahrenheit

To convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit, you can use the following formula:

°F = (K × 9/5) - 459.67

This formula involves multiplying the Kelvin temperature by 9/5, subtracting 459.67 from the result, and then converting the result to Fahrenheit.

For example, to convert 300 K to Fahrenheit, you would use the formula:

°F = (300 × 9/5) - 459.67
°F = 540 - 459.67
°F = 80.33

Therefore, 300 K is equal to 80.33°F.

Common Temperature Conversions

Here are some common temperature conversions between Fahrenheit and Kelvin:

- -459.67°F = 0 K (absolute zero)
- 32°F = 273.15 K (freezing point of water)
- 50°F = 283.15 K
- 68°F = 293.15 K
- 77°F = 298.15 K
- 86°F = 303.15 K
- 98.6°F = 310.15 K (normal body temperature)
- 104°F = 313.15 K (high fever)
- 212°F = 373.15 K (boiling point of water)

Conclusion

Converting temperatures between Fahrenheit and Kelvin is important for scientific and engineering applications. The formulas for converting temperatures are simple and involve basic arithmetic. It's important to use the correct formula and to be aware of the zero points of each scale. By understanding Fahrenheit and Kelvin, you can better understand physical phenomena and make informed decisions based on temperature readings.