Convert Temperature from degrees Celsius (C) to other units

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degree Celsius Conversion Formulas

How to Convert Celsius to Kelvin

Performing a temperature conversion from Celsius to Kelvin is one of the simplest calculations you can do. Unlike other conversions that require complex multiplication, these two scales move at the exact same rate.

The Kelvin scale was named after the physicist William Thomson, also known as Lord Kelvin. It is the primary unit of measurement in the physical sciences. To find the temperature in Kelvin, you simply add 273.15 to your Celsius degree.

The Formula

  • K = °C + 273.15

Example

Let's convert 5 degrees Celsius (°C) to Kelvin.

Using the formula above: 5 + 273.15 = 278.15

Therefore, 5 degrees Celsius is equal to 278.15 Kelvin.


How to Easily Convert Celsius to Fahrenheit

Wondering how to convert a temperature from Celsius (°C) to Fahrenheit (°F)? It's easy to do with a simple formula. While the numbers might seem tricky at first, the calculation is very straightforward.


The Conversion Formula

The most common formula to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit is:

  • °F = (°C × 1.8) + 32

A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Here's how to use that formula in three easy steps:

  1. Take the Celsius Temperature: Start with the temperature in degrees Celsius (e.g., 20°C).
  2. Multiply by 1.8: Multiply that Celsius number by 1.8 (which is the same as 9/5).
    • Example: 20 × 1.8 = 36
  3. Add 32: Take your new number and add 32 degrees to it. This is a key step because the freezing point of water is 0 degrees in Celsius but 32 degrees in Fahrenheit.
    • Example: 36 + 32 = 68

And you're done! So, 20°C is equal to 68°F.

You can use this simple method whenever you need to convert a temperature from Celsius to Fahrenheit.


degree Celsius to degree Rankine Conversion Formula

To convert from degree Celsius (C) to degree Rankine (R), use the following formula:

R

= (C + 273.15) × 95

= C × 95 + 491.67

What is a degree Celsius (°C)?

A degree Celsius (°C) is one of the most common units for measuring temperature around the world. As a key part of the metric system, it's used in everything from daily weather forecasts to scientific research. It offers a straightforward and rational method for gauging the temperature of an object. The plural version is degrees Celsius.


Why Is Celsius Based on Water's Freezing and Boiling Points?

The Celsius scale is cleverly based on the physical properties of water. This relationship to a familiar substance makes it very easy to understand. Let's break it down simply:

  • 0 °C is set as the freezing point of water.
  • 100 °C is set as the boiling point of water.

This perfect 100-degree interval between freezing and boiling is why it was initially called a "centigrade" scale (from "centi-" meaning 100). This straightforward system is the reason Celsius is the standard for temperature measurement in most countries.


Who Invented the Celsius Scale (And Was It Backwards)?

In 1742, the Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius introduced his temperature scale, but with a surprising twist—it was upside down! He originally set 100° as the freezing point of water and 0° as its boiling point.

It was only after his death that the scale was flipped to the familiar version we use today, making it far more logical. This change is often credited to fellow scientist Carl Linnaeus.


How to Convert Celsius to Fahrenheit and Kelvin

Because Celsius is a global standard, knowing how to convert it to other scales, such as Fahrenheit (°F) and Kelvin (K), is useful. Here are the simple formulas to do it:

  • Celsius to Fahrenheit (°F):
    • Formula: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32
    • This scale is primarily used in the United States. For example, a pleasant 20 °C day is 68 °F.
  • Celsius to Kelvin (K):
    • Formula: K = °C + 273.15
    • Kelvin is the official SI base unit for temperature and is mainly used in science. Note that Kelvin does not use the "degree" symbol.