How to Convert Units of Kelvin to Celsius

Many scales are available to describe temperature. Each scale uses a reference point for its descriptions. Two commonly used scales around the world are the Celsius scale and the Kelvin scale. The Celsius scale uses the freezing point and boiling points of water as a reference point. The freezing point of water is defined on the Celsius scale as 0 degrees and the boiling point of water is defined as 100 degrees. The Kelvin scale is the SI (metric system) temperature scale and is calibrated with the triple point of water (the point where water exists as a gas, liquid and solid in thermodynamic equilibrium) being valued at 273.16 K. The freezing point of water is then 273.15 Kelvin. To convert Kelvin to Celsius, simply subtract 273 from the temperature in Kelvin (K -- 273 = C).

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Paper

Instructions

Converting Kelvin to Celsius

1. Write the temperature in Kelvin.

2. Subtract 273 from the temperature in Kelvin.

3. The result is the temperature in degrees Celsius. For example, 300 Kelvin minus 273 equals 27 degrees Celsius (300 K -- 273 = 27 degrees C).

Converting Celsius to Kelvin

1. Write the temperature in degrees Celsius.

2. Add 273 to the temperature in degrees Celsius.

3. The result is the temperature in Kelvin. For example, 40 degrees Celsius plus 273 equals = 313 Kelvin (40 degrees C + 273 = 313 K).

References

• Unit of Thermodynamic Temperature (Kelvin)
• Metric System Temperature (Kelvin and Degrees Celsius)