Kelvin to Fahrenheit Converter – Quick & Accurate Temperature Tool
Kelvin to Fahrenheit: A Guide to Temperature Conversion
Kelvin and Fahrenheit 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 Kelvin and Fahrenheit can be useful for scientific calculations and understanding physical phenomena.
In this article, we will explore the differences between Kelvin and Fahrenheit, the formulas for converting temperatures between the two scales, and some common temperature conversions.
Kelvin vs. Fahrenheit: What's the difference?
Kelvin and Fahrenheit 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 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.
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.
Common Temperature Conversions
Here are some common temperature conversions between Kelvin and Fahrenheit:
- -459.67°F = 0 K (absolute zero)
- -273.15°C = 0 K (absolute zero)
- -40°F = -40°C = 233.15 K
- 32°F = 0°C = 273.15 K (freezing point of water)
- 68°F = 20°C = 293.15 K
- 77°F = 25°C = 298.15 K
- 98.6°F = 37°C = 310.15 K (normal body temperature)
- 212°F = 100°C = 373.15 K (boiling point of water)
Conclusion
Converting temperatures between Kelvin and Fahrenheit 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 Fahrenheit, you can better understand physical phenomena and make informed decisions based on temperature readings.