Kelvin to Celsius Conversion Calculator: Free Online Tool
Convert kelvins to degrees Celsius with our free online temperature converter.
Kelvin to Celsius Calculator
How to Use the Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Kelvin).
- The converted value in Celsius will appear automatically in the 'To' field.
- Use the dropdown menus to select different units within the Temperature category.
- Click the swap button (⇌) to reverse the conversion direction.
How to Convert Kelvin to Celsius
Temperature conversions like Kelvin to Celsius use specific non-linear formulas.
Formula:
°C = K - 273.15Example Calculation:
Convert 10K: 10 - 273.15 = -263.15°C
Disclaimer: For Reference Only
These conversion results are provided for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the precision of these results, especially for conversions involving extremely large or small numbers which may be subject to the inherent limitations of standard computer floating-point arithmetic.
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What is a Kelvin and a Celsius?
Kelvin (symbol: K) is the base unit of thermodynamic temperature in the International System of Units (SI). It is an absolute temperature scale, meaning 0 K represents absolute zero, the theoretical lowest possible temperature where all thermal motion ceases. Unlike Celsius and Fahrenheit, Kelvin is not expressed in degrees.
Degree Celsius (°C) is a unit of temperature on the Celsius scale, a temperature scale named after the Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius. It is one of the most common temperature scales used worldwide, particularly in science and in most countries for everyday measurements. The scale defines 0°C as the freezing point of water and 100°C as the boiling point of water at standard atmospheric pressure.
Note: The Kelvin is part of the imperial/US customary system, primarily used in the US, UK, and Canada for everyday measurements. The Celsius belongs to the metric (SI) system.
History of the Kelvin and Celsius
The Kelvin scale was proposed by William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, in 1848. He recognized the need for an absolute thermodynamic scale based on the principles of thermodynamics, independent of the properties of any specific substance. Absolute zero (0 K) was determined by extrapolating the behavior of ideal gases. The size of one kelvin unit is defined as the same magnitude as one degree Celsius (1 K = 1°C in terms of temperature difference).
The Celsius scale was developed by Anders Celsius in 1742. Originally, he proposed a scale where 0° represented the boiling point of water and 100° represented the freezing point. This scale was later inverted by Carl Linnaeus or Jean-Pierre Christin to the form we use today. The degree Celsius was adopted as part of the International System of Units (SI), where it is defined relative to the Kelvin scale (0°C = 273.15 K).
Common Uses for kelvins and degrees Celsius
Explore the typical applications for both Kelvin (imperial/US) and Celsius (metric) to understand their common contexts.
Common Uses for kelvins
- Scientific Research: Scientific research, particularly in physics, chemistry, and thermodynamics.
- Cryogenics: Measurement of very low temperatures (cryogenics).
- Lighting & Photography: Color temperature measurement in lighting and photography.
- Astronomy: Astronomy and astrophysics for measuring celestial body temperatures.
- SI Standard: Official SI unit for temperature in scientific contexts.
Common Uses for degrees Celsius
- Weather: Everyday weather reporting and forecasting in most parts of the world.
- Domestic: Domestic temperature settings (thermostats, ovens).
- Science: Scientific research, especially in chemistry and biology, alongside Kelvin.
- Medical: Medical temperature measurements.
- Culinary: Food storage and cooking temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About Kelvin (K)
Why doesn't Kelvin use degrees?
Kelvin represents an absolute scale starting from zero. The term 'degree' is typically associated with scales that have arbitrary reference points (like the freezing point of water). Since Kelvin starts at the fundamental limit of temperature, the unit itself is simply 'kelvin'.
What is absolute zero?
Absolute zero (0 K, or -273.15 °C, or -459.67 °F) is the lowest theoretical temperature. At this point, particles have minimal vibrational motion, retaining only quantum mechanical zero-point energy.
How does Kelvin relate to Celsius?
The conversion is straightforward because the size of the units is the same: K = °C + 273.15. To convert Kelvin to Celsius: °C = K - 273.15. A change of 1 K is identical to a change of 1°C.
About Celsius (°C)
Is Celsius the same as Centigrade?
Yes, 'Celsius' and 'Centigrade' refer to the same temperature scale. The name was officially changed to Celsius in 1948 to honor Anders Celsius and avoid confusion with 'centigrade' as an angular unit.
How does Celsius relate to Kelvin?
The Celsius scale is defined relative to the Kelvin scale, the SI base unit for temperature. A temperature difference of 1°C is equal to a difference of 1 K. To convert Celsius to Kelvin, add 273.15 (K = °C + 273.15).
Why is Celsius used so widely?
Its definition based on the freezing and boiling points of water at standard pressure makes it intuitive for everyday life and many scientific applications. It provides a convenient reference range for common environmental temperatures.