How to Convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit or Celsius

Reviewed by Anne Schmidt

Last Updated: September 28, 2023 Fact Checked

The Kelvin scale is a thermodynamic temperature scale where zero defines the point at which molecules give off no heat and all thermal motion ceases. In order to convert Kelvin measurements into Fahrenheit or Celsius, a simple plug-and-chug is all that's called for.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit

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The formula is: ºF = 1.8 x (K - 273) + 32.^{[1]
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The Kelvin temperature in this example is 373 K. Remember that you should not use degrees when measuring the temperature in Kelvin.^{[2]
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^{[3]
X
Research source} Just subtract 273 from 373. 373 - 273 = 100.
^{[4]
X
Research source} Now, multiply the answer, 100, by 1.8. 100 * 1.8 = 180.
Just add 32 to 180 to get your final answer.^{[5]
X
Research source} 180 + 32 = 212. Therefore, 373 K = 212ºF.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Convert Kelvin to Celsius

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The formula is: ºC = K - 273.^{[6]
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In this case, let's use 273 Kelvin.
^{[7]
X
Research source} Just subtract 273 from 273. 273 - 273 = 0. Therefore, 273K = 0 ºC.

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How do I convert F to C?

Donagan

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Subtract 32 from F, then multiply by 5/9.

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How do you convert fahrenheit to kelvin?

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Convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, then convert from Celsius to Kelvin.°F ->°C; [°C] = ([°F] - 32) × 5/9; °C ->K; K = [°C]+273.

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If a graph is plotted taking the temperature in Fahrenheit along the Y- axis, and the corresponding temperature in Celsius along the X- axis, then is the graph a straight line?

Donagan

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Yes.

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Tips

For very precise conversions use 273.15 instead of 273.

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Scientists generally omit the word "degree" when using Kelvin. Say '373 Kelvin' instead of '373 degrees Kelvin'.

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Any temperature difference will come out the same for Kelvin and Celsius. For instance the temperature difference between boiling water and melting ice can be calculated as follows:
- 100 ºC - 0 ºC = 100 ºC or
- 373.15 K - 273.15 K = 100 K
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