How to Convert Celsius to Kelvin

Contributor

By Benjamin Arie
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (1 Ratings)

Convert Celsius to Kelvin

In business, science, and engineering, different conversion scales are used throughout the world. The standard scale in one country may not be ideal for use in another location. Being sure that conversions and calculations are correct is increasingly important as international trade grows. Simple errors in conversion can cause major problems and may be avoided by using proper math to reduce many errors. Learn the correct formula for Celsius to Kelvin temperature conversions.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Calculator

Step 1

Celsius and Kelvin temperature scales are similar, with one major difference. While Celsius is based on the freezing point of water, Kelvin is based on "absolute zero," the lowest temperature possible.
Step 2

The formula for converting to Kelvin is: K=C+273.15.
"K" and "C" stand for degrees Kelvin and degrees Celsius. The number, 273.15, comes from the fact that absolute zero, the base for Kelvin, is 273.15 degrees below freezing on the Celsius scale.
Step 3

Enter the degrees you want to convert into the formula. For example, to convert from 30 degrees C, the math formula would become K=30+273.15.
Step 4

Perform the math to find the answer. In the above example, adding 30+273.15 creates the answer K=303.15. This is the solution in Kelvin degrees.
Step 5

This conversion can also be performed the other way around, from Kelvin to Celsius. Simply switch the formula around: C=K-273.15.