Temperature Converter

Convert between Fahrenheit (°F) and Celsius (°C) with this interactive temperature calculator.

Temperature Converter

Enter a value in either Fahrenheit or Celsius to see the converted result instantly.

Adjust with slider:

-76°F32°F68°F212°F

Adjust with slider:

-60°C0°C20°C100°C

Conversion Formulas

Fahrenheit to Celsius

°C = (°F - 32) × 5/9

Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature, then multiply by 5/9

Celsius to Fahrenheit

°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32

Multiply the Celsius temperature by 9/5, then add 32

Conversion Result

68°F
20°C

Temperature Category:Mild

Visual representation of current temperature

Did You Know?

The Celsius scale was originally defined by Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius in 1742, placing 0° at the boiling point and 100° at the freezing point of water. After his death, the scale was reversed to its current form.

At -40°, both Fahrenheit and Celsius scales show the same value. This is the only point where the two scales intersect!

Temperature Scale Comparison

See how Fahrenheit and Celsius scales compare at common temperature points

Common Temperature Points

Temperature Facts

Information

The Fahrenheit scale was developed by Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit in 1724. He initially set 0°F as the freezing point of a specific salt and water mixture, and 96°F as the human body temperature (though modern measurements place average body temperature at 98.6°F).

Warning

While most countries use Celsius for everyday temperature measurement, the United States still primarily uses Fahrenheit. Scientists worldwide use the Celsius scale or Kelvin (which starts at absolute zero: -273.15°C or -459.67°F).

Pro Tip

Need a quick approximation? To roughly convert Celsius to Fahrenheit in your head, double the Celsius value and add 30 (for precise results, multiply by 9/5 and add 32).

Temperature Simplified

The Complete Guide to Temperature Conversions

Learn how to convert temperatures accurately and apply this knowledge in everyday life

Understanding Temperature Scales

Temperature is a fundamental part of our daily lives, from checking the weather to cooking a meal. However, different regions and fields use different scales to measure it. The three most common scales are Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F), and Kelvin (K). Each scale has unique characteristics and applications:

  • Celsius (°C): Used globally, especially in science. Based on water's freezing (0°C) and boiling (100°C) points.
  • Fahrenheit (°F): Common in the U.S. Water freezes at 32°F and boils at 212°F.
  • Kelvin (K): The scientific standard, starting at absolute zero (-273.15°C), with no negative values.

Did You Know?

The Fahrenheit scale was originally based on the freezing point of brine, while Celsius was designed to be more straightforward with water's properties.

Temperature Scale Usage Worldwide

Approximate global usage of temperature scales

Essential Conversion Formulas

Converting Between Scales

Master the key formulas for accurate conversions

Temperature conversions are straightforward once you know the formulas. Here are the most common conversions:

Key Formulas

  • Celsius to Fahrenheit: \( F = (C \times 1.8) + 32 \)
  • Fahrenheit to Celsius: \( C = (F - 32) / 1.8 \)
  • Celsius to Kelvin: \( K = C + 273.15 \)
  • Kelvin to Celsius: \( C = K - 273.15 \)
  • Fahrenheit to Kelvin: \( K = (F - 32) / 1.8 + 273.15 \)
  • Kelvin to Fahrenheit: \( F = (K - 273.15) \times 1.8 + 32 \)

Pro Tip: For quick Celsius to Fahrenheit conversions, double the Celsius temperature and add 30. It's not exact but useful for estimates (e.g., 20°C ≈ 70°F).

Conversion Examples

25°C to Fahrenheit: \( F = (25 \times 1.8) + 32 = 45 + 32 = 77°F \)

98.6°F to Celsius: \( C = (98.6 - 32) / 1.8 = 66.6 / 1.8 ≈ 37°C \)

300 K to Celsius: \( C = 300 - 273.15 = 26.85°C \)

Celsius to Fahrenheit Comparison

Real-World Applications

Where temperature conversions matter

Cooking

Convert oven temperatures between Celsius and Fahrenheit for recipes from different countries. For example, 180°C (UK) = 356°F (US).

Weather

Understand international weather reports. A forecast of 25°C in Europe is 77°F in the U.S.

Science

Convert temperatures for experiments. For instance, room temperature (25°C) is 298.15 K in scientific contexts.

Tips and Tricks for Temperature Conversion

Mental Math Shortcuts

Celsius to Fahrenheit: Double the Celsius temperature and add 30. Example: 20°C ≈ 70°F (actual 68°F).

Fahrenheit to Celsius: Subtract 30 and halve the result. Example: 70°F ≈ 20°C (actual 21.1°C).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mixing up formulas: Remember to add/subtract 32 for Fahrenheit conversions.

Forgetting Kelvin's offset: Always add/subtract 273.15 when converting to/from Kelvin.

Mastering Temperature Conversions

Apply your knowledge with confidence

Temperature conversion is a practical skill that bridges gaps between different measurement systems. Whether you're cooking, traveling, or studying, knowing how to switch between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin can make your life easier. Use our Temperature Converter tool to practice and perfect your conversions. With these skills, you'll be ready to tackle any temperature-related challenge!

Ready to convert temperatures?

Try our Temperature Converter above! For more tools, explore our related calculators:

Unit ConverterWeather Tools