Kelvin to Celsius

Kelvin

Definition

Kelvin (symbol: K) is the base unit of temperature in the International System of Units (SI). The Kelvin scale is an absolute temperature scale that starts from absolute zero, the point at which molecular motion ceases.

History/Origin

The Kelvin scale was developed by Scottish engineer and physicist William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, in the mid-19th century. It was designed to provide an absolute reference point for temperature measurements. The Kelvin scale is based on the properties of gases, and absolute zero was conceptualized as the point where the volume of gas would theoretically be zero.

Current Use

Kelvin is primarily used in scientific contexts, particularly in physics and chemistry, where precise temperature measurements are required. It is also used in fields such as astronomy, cryogenics, and engineering. Kelvin is essential for scientific research, where understanding temperature at an absolute scale is crucial.

Celsius

Definition

Celsius (symbol: °C) is a unit of temperature in the metric system. It is based on the temperature scale where 0°C represents the freezing point of water and 100°C represents the boiling point of water at sea level.

History/Origin

The Celsius scale was developed by Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius in 1742. Initially, he defined the scale in reverse, with 0°C as the boiling point and 100°C as the freezing point. Later, this was inverted to the current standard.

Current Use

Celsius is widely used around the world, particularly in scientific contexts and in countries that follow the metric system. It is commonly used for weather reports, medical thermometers, and various scientific measurements.

Conversion Details

Conversion Formula and Factor

To convert from Kelvin to Celsius, you can use the following formula: