Kelvin to Réaumur Conversion Calculator: Free Online Tool
Convert kelvins to degrees Réaumur with our free online temperature converter.
Kelvin to Réaumur Calculator
How to Use the Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Kelvin).
- The converted value in Réaumur 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 Réaumur
Temperature conversions like Kelvin to Réaumur use specific non-linear formulas.
Formula:
First convert K to °C: °C = K - 273.15. Then convert °C to °Ré: °Ré = °C × 4/5Example Calculation:
Convert 10K:
1. °C = 10 - 273.15 = -263.15°C
2. °Ré = -263.15 × 4/5 = -210.52°Ré
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 Réaumur?
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 Réaumur scale (°Ré, °Re, °R) is a temperature scale where the freezing point of water is 0 degrees and the boiling point is 80 degrees.
Note: The Kelvin is part of the imperial/US customary system, primarily used in the US, UK, and Canada for everyday measurements. The Réaumur belongs to the imperial/US customary system.
History of the Kelvin and Réaumur
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).
Developed by René Antoine Ferchault de Réaumur in 1730, it was based on the expansion of alcohol. He marked the freezing point as 0 and the boiling point of the alcohol solution as 80. It gained popularity in parts of Europe, particularly France and Germany, but has largely been replaced by Celsius.
Common Uses for kelvins and degrees Réaumur
Explore the typical applications for both Kelvin (imperial/US) and Réaumur (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 Réaumur
- Historical Context: Found in old scientific literature and historical documents.
- Specific Industries: Occasionally used in some specific contexts, such as cheesemaking in Italy (for Parmigiano-Reggiano) or for measuring sugar syrup temperature in some Dutch cooking.
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 Réaumur (°Ré)
What are the freezing and boiling points of water in Réaumur?
Water freezes at 0 °Ré and boils at 80 °Ré.
How does Réaumur relate to Celsius?
The Réaumur degree is larger than the Celsius degree. The formula is °Ré = °C × 4/5.
Is the Réaumur scale still commonly used?
No, it is rarely used today, having been largely superseded by the Celsius scale.