Kelvin to Celsius

Kelvin to Celsius: A Guide to Temperature Conversion

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

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

Kelvin vs. Celsius: What's the difference?

Kelvin and Celsius 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 Celsius scale uses degrees Celsius (°C) to measure temperature. The freezing point of water is defined as 0°C, and the boiling point of water is defined as 100°C.

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 -273.15°C.

Formulas for Converting Kelvin to Celsius

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

°C = K - 273.15

This formula involves subtracting 273.15 from the Kelvin temperature to get the equivalent Celsius temperature.

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

°C = 300 - 273.15
°C = 26.85

Therefore, 300 K is equal to 26.85°C.

Formulas for Converting Celsius to Kelvin

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

K = °C + 273.15

This formula involves adding 273.15 to the Celsius temperature to get the equivalent Kelvin temperature.

For example, to convert 25°C to Kelvin, you would use the formula:

K = 25 + 273.15
K = 298.15

Therefore, 25°C is equal to 298.15 K.

Common Temperature Conversions

Here are some common temperature conversions between Kelvin and Celsius:

- 0 K = -273.15°C (absolute zero)
- 273.15 K = 0°C (freezing point of water)
- 283.15 K = 10°C
- 293.15 K = 20°C
- 298.15 K = 25°C
- 303.15 K = 30°C
- 310.15 K = 37°C (normal body temperature)
- 313.15 K = 40°C (high fever)
- 373.15 K = 100°C (boiling point of water)

Conclusion

Converting temperatures between Kelvin and Celsius 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 Kelvin and Celsius, you can better understand physical phenomena and make informed decisions based on temperature readings.