Summarize this article:
100 LearnersLast updated on September 26, 2025
Temperature Conversion Formulas
Temperature conversion involves changing the temperature from one unit to another. The common temperature scales are Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin. In this topic, we will learn the formulas for converting temperatures between these scales.
List of Temperature Conversion Formulas
Temperature can be measured in Celsius, Fahrenheit, or Kelvin.
Let’s learn the formulas to convert temperatures between these scales.
Temperature Conversion Formula from Celsius to Fahrenheit
To convert a temperature from Celsius to Fahrenheit, use the following formula:\( ( F = \frac{9}{5}C + 32 )\)where F is the temperature in Fahrenheit and C is the temperature in Celsius.
Temperature Conversion Formula from Fahrenheit to Celsius
To convert a temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius, use the formula: \(( C = \frac{5}{9}(F - 32) ) \)where C is the temperature in Celsius and F is the temperature in Fahrenheit.
Temperature Conversion Formula from Celsius to Kelvin
To convert a temperature from Celsius to Kelvin, use the formula:\( ( K = C + 273.15 )\) where K is the temperature in Kelvin and C is the temperature in Celsius.
Importance of Temperature Conversion Formulas
In science and everyday life, temperature conversion formulas help in comparing and understanding temperatures in different units. Here are some important uses of these formulas:
- They are essential for scientific experiments and calculations involving temperature changes.
- They help in understanding weather patterns and forecasts by converting temperatures to the desired scale.
- These formulas are used in cooking to convert oven temperatures between Fahrenheit and Celsius.
Tips and Tricks to Memorize Temperature Conversion Formulas
Students often find temperature conversion formulas tricky. Here are some tips and tricks to help memorize them:
- Use simple mnemonics to remember the key formulas, like "C to F, multiply by 9/5 and add 32" and "F to C, subtract 32, multiply by 5/9."
- Connect the use of these conversions with real-life scenarios, such as converting the room temperature or oven settings.
- Use flashcards to memorize the formulas and rewrite them for quick recall, and create a formula chart for quick reference.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them While Using Temperature Conversion Formulas
Students often make errors when converting temperatures. Here are some common mistakes and ways to avoid them:
Mistake 1
Forgetting to adjust for the 32-degree offset in Fahrenheit
A common mistake is neglecting to add or subtract 32 when converting between Celsius and Fahrenheit. To avoid this, always remember that Fahrenheit includes a 32-degree shift relative to Celsius.
Mistake 2
Switching conversion factors
Students sometimes confuse the factors for conversion, such as using \( \frac{9}{5} \) instead of \( \frac{5}{9} \). To avoid this mistake, memorize the correct factors for each conversion direction.
Mistake 3
Confusing Kelvin with Celsius
Students might mistakenly use the same steps for Celsius and Kelvin since they both start at zero. Remember that Kelvin does not use degrees and starts at absolute zero, so always add 273.15 to convert Celsius to Kelvin.
Mistake 4
Rounding errors in calculations
Inaccurate rounding can lead to errors in temperature conversion. Always use precise values, especially in scientific contexts, and round only at the final step if necessary.
Mistake 5
Neglecting unit labels
Students sometimes forget to label units after conversion, leading to confusion. Always write the unit next to the numerical value once the conversion is complete.
Examples of Problems Using Temperature Conversion Formulas
Problem 1
Convert 25 degrees Celsius to Fahrenheit.
The converted temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
Explanation
To convert 25 degrees Celsius to Fahrenheit, use the formula: \(( F = \frac{9}{5} \times 25 + 32 = 45 + 32 = 77 ).\)
Problem 2
Convert 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius.
The converted temperature is 37 degrees Celsius.
Explanation
To convert 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius, use the formula:\( ( C = \frac{5}{9}(98.6 - 32) = \frac{5}{9} \times 66.6 = 37 ).\)
Problem 3
Convert 0 degrees Celsius to Kelvin.
The converted temperature is 273.15 Kelvin.
Explanation
To convert 0 degrees Celsius to Kelvin, use the formula: \(( K = 0 + 273.15 = 273.15 ).\)
Problem 4
Convert 310 Kelvin to Celsius.
The converted temperature is 36.85 degrees Celsius.
Explanation
To convert 310 Kelvin to Celsius, subtract 273.15:\( ( C = 310 - 273.15 = 36.85 ).\)
Problem 5
Convert -40 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius.
The converted temperature is -40 degrees Celsius.
Explanation
To convert -40 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius, use the formula:\( ( C = \frac{5}{9}(-40 - 32) = \frac{5}{9} \times (-72) = -40 ).\)
FAQs on Temperature Conversion Formulas
1.What is the formula to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
2.How do you convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
3.What is the Kelvin to Celsius conversion?
4.Why is Kelvin used in scientific calculations?
5.Can you convert directly from Fahrenheit to Kelvin?
Glossary for Temperature Conversion Formulas
- Celsius: A temperature scale where water freezes at 0 degrees and boils at 100 degrees.
- Fahrenheit: A temperature scale where water freezes at 32 degrees and boils at 212 degrees.
- Kelvin: A scientific temperature scale starting at absolute zero, where water freezes at 273.15 K and boils at 373.15 K.
- Absolute Zero: The lowest possible temperature, 0 K, where molecular motion stops.
- Temperature Conversion: The process of changing a temperature from one unit to another using specific formulas.
Explore More math-formulas
![Important Math Links Icon]()
Previous to Temperature Conversion Formulas
![Important Math Links Icon]()
Next to Temperature Conversion Formulas
Jaskaran Singh Saluja
About the Author
Jaskaran Singh Saluja is a math wizard with nearly three years of experience as a math teacher. His expertise is in algebra, so he can make algebra classes interesting by turning tricky equations into simple puzzles.
Fun Fact
: He loves to play the quiz with kids through algebra to make kids love it.
