Temperature Converter

Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin and Rankine with instant results and high precision. Perfect for cooking, weather, science, and international communication.

Temperature Conversion Calculator

Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin and Rankine with high precision

Common Temperature References

Click any reference to use as input

Key Features

Instant conversion between Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, and Rankine
High precision calculations with adjustable decimal places
Common temperature references for quick input
Perfect for cooking, weather, science, and international communication

Understanding Temperature

Celsius (°C): Water freezes at 0°C and boils at 100°C - most scientific and international use
Fahrenheit (°F): Water freezes at 32°F and boils at 212°F - common in United States
Kelvin (K): Absolute temperature scale starting at absolute zero (0K = -273.15°C)
Rankine (°R): Absolute Fahrenheit scale, used in engineering (0°R = -459.67°F)

Tips & Strategies

Quick Mental Math: °C to °F: double and add 30. °F to °C: subtract 30 and halve (approximate)
Cooking Conversions: Most recipes use °F in US, °C elsewhere. Oven temperatures are critical for baking success
Weather Understanding: 20°C (68°F) is comfortable room temperature, 0°C (32°F) is freezing point
Scientific Use: Always use Kelvin for absolute temperature calculations and physics formulas
Medical Reference: Normal body temperature is 37°C (98.6°F) - fever starts around 38°C (100.4°F)
Precision Settings: Use 0-1 decimals for daily use, 2-3 for cooking, 4+ for scientific calculations
Common Mistakes: Remember 0°C = 32°F (not 0°F), and Kelvin uses no degree symbol (K not °K)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which temperature scale should I use?

Use Celsius for most international applications and science, Fahrenheit if you're in the US or dealing with US recipes, and Kelvin for scientific calculations involving absolute temperature measurements.

Why does the US use Fahrenheit?

The US adopted Fahrenheit early in its history, and the scale became entrenched in everyday life. Fahrenheit provides more precise whole numbers for everyday temperatures (0-100°F covers most weather conditions).

How accurate are temperature conversions?

Our converter uses precise mathematical formulas defined by international standards. For example, °C to °F: (°C × 9/5) + 32, and °F to °C: (°F - 32) × 5/9. Results are accurate to many decimal places.

What is absolute zero in all temperature scales?

Absolute zero is the theoretical temperature where all molecular motion stops: -273.15°C, -459.67°F, 0K, or 0°R. This is the lowest possible temperature in the universe.

What is the difference between Celsius and Centigrade?

"Centigrade" is the old name for the Celsius scale. In 1948, the scale was officially renamed "Celsius" to honor Anders Celsius. Both terms refer to the same temperature scale.

Can temperatures go below absolute zero?

Theoretically, no. Absolute zero represents the complete absence of thermal energy. However, in quantum mechanics, scientists have achieved "negative absolute temperatures" in very specific controlled conditions.

What is Rankine and when is it used?

Rankine is an absolute temperature scale based on Fahrenheit degrees. It's used in thermodynamics and engineering, especially in the United States. 0°R = absolute zero, just like 0K in Kelvin.

How do I convert between all temperature scales?

Use our converter for instant results, or remember: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32, K = °C + 273.15, °R = °F + 459.67. All conversions go through Celsius as the base unit.