Temperature Converter
Convert temperatures between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin with precise calculations and common reference points.
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Conversion Formulas
C to F: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32
F to C: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9
C to K: K = °C + 273.15
K to C: °C = K - 273.15
Common Temperatures
| Description | °C | °F | K |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Zero | -273.15 | -459.67 | 0 |
| Water Freezes | 0 | 32 | 273.15 |
| Room Temperature | 20 | 68 | 293.15 |
| Body Temperature | 37 | 98.6 | 310.15 |
| Water Boils | 100 | 212 | 373.15 |
How to Use Temperature Converter
- Enter a temperature value in any field
- Other units update automatically
- Reference the common temperatures table
- Use the formulas for manual calculations
About Temperature Converter
Temperature scales vary globally—Fahrenheit in the US, Celsius internationally, Kelvin in science. Our converter translates between all three with precision and provides common reference points for context.
Temperature Scales
- Celsius (°C): Water freezes at 0°, boils at 100° (metric standard)
- Fahrenheit (°F): Water freezes at 32°, boils at 212° (US standard)
- Kelvin (K): Absolute scale; 0K is absolute zero (-273.15°C)
Conversion Formulas
°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9. K = °C + 273.15. These formulas aren't simple ratios because Fahrenheit and Celsius have different zero points. Our converter handles the math precisely.
Reference Points
Body temperature: 37°C = 98.6°F. Room temperature: ~20-22°C = ~68-72°F. Freezing: 0°C = 32°F. These landmarks help verify conversions and understand unfamiliar temperature readings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert between Celsius and Fahrenheit?
Celsius to Fahrenheit: multiply by 9/5 (or 1.8) then add 32. Fahrenheit to Celsius: subtract 32 then multiply by 5/9. Key reference points: water freezes at 0°C/32°F, boils at 100°C/212°F. Normal body temperature is about 37°C/98.6°F. Our tool does instant conversions.
What is Kelvin and when is it used?
Kelvin is the SI unit for temperature, used in science. It starts at absolute zero (-273.15°C), where molecular motion stops. To convert: K = C + 273.15. Unlike Celsius/Fahrenheit, Kelvin doesn't use degrees (just "K"). Scientists prefer Kelvin because ratios are meaningful (200K is twice as hot as 100K).
What is the relationship between temperature scales?
Celsius and Kelvin have the same interval size (1°C change = 1K change). Fahrenheit degrees are smaller (1°C = 1.8°F). The scales intersect at -40° (where -40°C = -40°F). Only Kelvin starts at absolute zero, making it ideal for scientific calculations involving temperature ratios.
What is absolute zero?
Absolute zero is the theoretical lowest temperature: 0 K = -273.15°C = -459.67°F. At this point, particles have minimum possible energy. It's physically unattainable but approachable. Our converter can calculate temperatures approaching absolute zero for scientific applications.
Which temperature scale should I use?
Celsius is used in most of the world for weather, cooking, and everyday use. Fahrenheit is common in the US. Kelvin is for science and engineering. For international communication, Celsius is standard. Our tool converts between all three, plus Rankine for engineering applications.
How accurate are temperature conversions?
Our conversions use exact mathematical formulas with high precision. We display results to 2 decimal places by default (sufficient for most purposes) with an option for more precision. The formulas (F = C×9/5+32, K = C+273.15) are exact, not approximations.