Temperature Converter
Edit any field to convert instantly.
What is a Temperature Converter?
A temperature converter instantly converts between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin. Edit any field and the other two update automatically. Used in cooking, science, weather, and any situation where temperatures are reported in a different scale than the one you are familiar with.
How It Works
Common Reference Points
| Fahrenheit | Celsius | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 32 F | 0 C | Water freezes |
| 98.6 F | 37 C | Body temperature |
| 212 F | 100 C | Water boils |
| 350 F | 177 C | Common baking temp |
Tips
- A quick mental shortcut: double the Celsius temperature and add 30 to get an approximate Fahrenheit value. It is off by a few degrees but useful for rough estimates.
- The only temperature where Celsius and Fahrenheit are equal is -40 degrees.
- Kelvin is used in science and has no negative values. Absolute zero (0 K) is the coldest possible temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Celsius and Fahrenheit?
Celsius is used by most of the world and by scientists everywhere. Water freezes at 0 C and boils at 100 C. Fahrenheit is used primarily in the United States. Water freezes at 32 F and boils at 212 F. The scales use different zero points and different degree sizes.
What is Kelvin used for?
Kelvin is the SI base unit for temperature and is used in physics, chemistry, and astronomy. It starts at absolute zero, the theoretical point where all molecular motion stops. Unlike Celsius and Fahrenheit, Kelvin uses no degree symbol.
What is absolute zero?
Absolute zero is 0 K, which equals -273.15 C or -459.67 F. It is the lowest theoretically possible temperature, at which point all thermal motion of particles ceases. It has never been achieved in practice, only approached.
Why is body temperature 98.6 F (37 C)?
98.6 F (37 C) is the long-established average, but normal body temperature varies by person, time of day, and measurement location. More recent research suggests the average may be closer to 97.9 F (36.6 C). Fever is generally defined as above 100.4 F (38 C).