The Ultimate Guide to Temperature Scales
Temperature is one of the most fundamental measurements in our lives, affecting everything from the clothes we wear to how we cook our food. However, depending on where you live, you might be using a completely different scale. Our converter helps you translate between Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F), and Kelvin (K) instantly.
Celsius vs. Fahrenheit: A Tale of Two Systems
Why do the USA and the rest of the world use different scales?
- Celsius (°C): Created by Anders Celsius, it is based on the properties of water. 0°C is the freezing point, and 100°C is the boiling point (at sea level). It is scientific and logical, used by most of the world.
- Fahrenheit (°F): Created by Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit, it was designed based on the human body temperature (approx. 100°F) and a brine mixture (0°F). It offers more precision for air temperature without using decimals (e.g., the difference between 70°F and 71°F is smaller than 21°C and 22°C).
Baking Conversion Cheat Sheet
If you are following an American recipe in Europe (or vice-versa), knowing these oven temperatures is essential:
- 300°F ≈ 150°C (Slow baking)
- 350°F ≈ 180°C (The most common baking temp)
- 400°F ≈ 200°C (Roasting vegetables/meat)
- 450°F ≈ 230°C (Pizza and high heat)
What is Kelvin (K)?
Kelvin is the primary unit of temperature in the physical sciences. Unlike Celsius and Fahrenheit, it is not referred to as "degrees," just "Kelvin."
- Absolute Zero (0 K): The theoretical point where all molecular motion stops. It is equivalent to -273.15°C.
- No Negative Numbers: The Kelvin scale starts at 0, making it perfect for scientific calculations involving thermodynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a temperature where °C and °F are the same?
Yes! At -40 degrees, the Celsius and Fahrenheit scales intersect. So, -40°C is exactly equal to -40°F. It is extremely cold in either unit!
How to estimate Fahrenheit from Celsius in your head?
A quick mental math trick: Double the Celsius temperature and add 30.
Example: 20°C × 2 = 40 + 30 = 70°F (Actual is 68°F). It's close enough for weather estimates.
Disclaimer: The baking conversions are rounded for convenience. For candy making or scientific experiments, use the precise calculator above.