How to Convert Fahrenheit to Celsius Temperatures

Thermometers align the two temperature scales.

A Celsius degree represents a greater temperature change than a Fahrenheit degree. The change from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, the freezing and boiling points of water, corresponds with a change from 0 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius. Each Celsius degree equals 1.8 Fahrenheit degrees. To convert between the two units, you must also consider the scales at a point where they represent the same temperature, such as 0 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Instructions

1. Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature. For example, if you are converting a temperature of 106 degrees Fahrenheit: 106 - 32 = 74

2. Divide this answer by 9: 74 ÷ 9 = 8.222

3. Multiply the result by 5: 8.222 --- 5 = 41.1. This is the temperature in degrees Celsius.

References

• University of Oregon: Temperature Scale; James Schombert
• Rutgers University: Temperature Conversion Chart
• University Corporation for Atmospheric Research: About Temperature; Beverly T. Lynds; November 1995

Resources

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Fahrenheit to Celsius Converter
• Illinois Institute of Technology: Converting Celsius to Fahrenheit; Amaechi Onyeali