How to Convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit or Celsius

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.

Steps

Convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit

1. Write down the formula for converting Kelvin to Fahrenheit. The formula is: ºF = 1.8 x (K - 273) + 32.
   
2. Write down the Kelvin temperature. The Kelvin temperature in this example is 373 K. Remember that you should not use degrees when measuring the temperature in Kelvin.^[1]
   
3. Subtract 273 from the Kelvin temperature. Just subtract 273 from 373. 373 - 273 = 100.
   
4. Multiply the result by 9/5 or 1.8. Now, multiply the answer, 100, by 1.8. 100 * 1.8 = 180.
   
5. Add 32 to your final answer. Just add 32 to 180 to get your final answer. 180 + 32 = 212. Therefore, 373 K = 212ºF.
   

Convert Kelvin to Celsius

1. Write down the formula for converting Kelvin to Celsius. The formula is: ºC = K - 273.
   
2. Write down the Kelvin temperature. In this case, let's use 273 Kelvin.
   
3. Subtract 273 from the Kelvin temperature. Just subtract 273 from 273. 273 - 273 = 0. Therefore, 273K = 0 ºC.
   

Tips

• Scientists generally omit the word "degree" when using Kelvin. Say '373 Kelvin' instead of '373 degrees Kelvin'.
• For very precise conversions use 273.15 instead of 273.
• To convert from Fahrenheit when there's no need to be precise I just take the temperature in Fahrenheit, subtract 32, and divide by 2. Eg: (100F-32)/2=34°c.
• 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

Related wikiHows

• How to Convert Between Fahrenheit and Celsius
• How to Estimate Celsius Temperatures in Fahrenheit
• How to Find the Number of Neutrons in an Atom

Sources and Citations

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