Frequently asked questions
How do I quickly estimate Celsius to Fahrenheit in my head?
Double the Celsius temperature and add 30 for a fast weather estimate (for example, 20 °C × 2 + 30 = 70 °F; exact is 68 °F). For exact results, multiply by 1.8 and add 32.
At what temperature are Celsius and Fahrenheit equal?
They meet at −40 degrees: (−40 × 9/5) + 32 = −72 + 32 = −40. Both −40 °C and −40 °F represent the exact same temperature.
Why can't I enter a temperature below −273.15 °C or 0 K?
0 Kelvin (−273.15 °C or −459.67 °F) is thermodynamic absolute zero, the fundamental physical lower limit at which classical thermal motion ceases.
Why is Kelvin written without a degree (°) symbol?
Since 1967, the International System of Units (SI) defines the kelvin (symbol K) as an absolute base unit rather than a relative degree scale, whereas Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F) retain the degree symbol.
What is the Rankine scale used for?
Rankine (°R) is an absolute thermodynamic scale like Kelvin, starting at 0 °R = absolute zero, but using Fahrenheit-sized degree increments (1 K = 1.8 °R). It appears in aerospace and US thermodynamic engineering.
How do oven temperatures convert between Celsius and Fahrenheit?
A standard baking temperature of 180 °C equals 356 °F (commonly rounded to 350 °F in US recipes), while 200 °C equals 392 °F (often rounded to 400 °F). Fan/convection ovens typically run 15–20 °C cooler than conventional recipes.