Kelvin to Delisle Conversion Calculator: Free Online Tool
Convert kelvins to degrees Delisle with our free online temperature converter.
Kelvin to Delisle Calculator
How to Use the Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Kelvin).
- The converted value in Delisle 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 Delisle
Temperature conversions like Kelvin to Delisle use specific non-linear formulas.
Formula:
First convert K to °C: °C = K - 273.15. Then convert °C to °De: °De = (100 - °C) × 3/2Example Calculation:
Convert 10K:
1. °C = 10 - 273.15 = -263.15°C
2. °De = (100 - -263.15) × 3/2 = 544.7°De
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.
Not for professional use. Results should be verified before use in any critical application. View our Terms of Service for more information.
What is a Kelvin and a Delisle?
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.
The Delisle scale (°De) is a historical temperature scale where the boiling point of water is set at 0 degrees and the freezing point at 150 degrees. The scale decreases as thermal energy increases.
Note: The Kelvin is part of the imperial/US customary system, primarily used in the US, UK, and Canada for everyday measurements. The Delisle belongs to the imperial/US customary system.
History of the Kelvin and Delisle
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).
Invented by the French astronomer Joseph-Nicolas Delisle in 1732 for use in Russia. He defined his scale with the boiling point of water as 0 °De and the freezing point as 150 °De. It was used primarily in Russia for about a century.
Common Uses for kelvins and degrees Delisle
Explore the typical applications for both Kelvin (imperial/US) and Delisle (imperial/US) 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 Delisle
- Historical Significance: Of interest in the history of thermometry, particularly in Russia.
- Not used in modern scientific or general applications.
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 Delisle (°De)
What are the freezing and boiling points of water in Delisle?
Water boils at 0 °De and freezes at 150 °De. Note that the scale is inverted compared to Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Why does the Delisle scale decrease with increasing temperature?
Delisle set the boiling point of water as his zero reference and measured the contraction of mercury as it cooled, leading to higher numbers for colder temperatures.
How does Delisle relate to Celsius?
The relationship is °De = (100 - °C) × 3/2.