Temperature Converter Calculator
Free online temperature converter supporting Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F), Kelvin (K), and Rankine (°R). Instant bidirectional conversion with formulas displayed. Essential for cooking, weather, scientific experiments, HVAC calculations, and international temperature comparisons. Includes common reference points like freezing and boiling points.
Understanding Temperature Scales
Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, and other scale origins
Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of particles in a substance. Different scales have been developed throughout history to measure temperature, each with its own reference points and applications.
The most widely used temperature scale worldwide. Based on water's freezing point (0°C) and boiling point (100°C) at sea level.
Commonly used in the United States. Water freezes at 32°F and boils at 212°F. Originally based on a brine solution's freezing point.
The SI unit of temperature. Absolute zero (0K = -273.15°C) is the lowest possible temperature. Used extensively in science and engineering.
Rankine is an absolute scale using Fahrenheit degrees, used in some US engineering. Réaumur is a historical scale where water boils at 80°.
Quick Conversion Formulas
Common formulas for converting between temperature scales
Common Reference Temperatures
Key benchmarks from absolute zero to boiling water
| Reference Point | °C | °F | K |
|---|---|---|---|
Absolute Zero Lowest possible temperature | -273.15°C | -459.67°F | 0K |
Water Freezes Freezing point of water at 1 atm | 0°C | 32°F | 273.15K |
Room Temperature Typical comfortable indoor temperature | 25°C | 77°F | 298.15K |
Body Temperature Normal human body temperature | 37°C | 98.6°F | 310.15K |
Water Boils Boiling point of water at 1 atm | 100°C | 212°F | 373.15K |
Practical Temperature Guide
Everyday temperature ranges for food, health, and comfort
Keep cold foods below 5°C (41°F) and hot foods above 60°C (140°F) to prevent bacterial growth.
The World Health Organization suggests a minimum of 18°C (64°F) for healthy people in winter.
Normal human body temperature is approximately 37°C (98.6°F). A fever is typically defined as above 38°C (100.4°F).
Pure water freezes at 0°C (32°F) and boils at 100°C (212°F) at standard atmospheric pressure.
Global Temperature Extremes
Record highs and lows measured on Earth
The Earth experiences a wide range of temperatures, from the intense heat of deserts to the extreme cold of the polar regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about temperature conversions between scales