Kelvin to Fahrenheit calculator

Convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit instantly with our free online calculator. Perfect for weather, cooking, and scientific measurements.

Result
Converted value will appear here
°F

Conversion Formula

F = K × 9/5 - 459.67

What is Kelvin?

Last updated: Apr 12, 2025

Kelvin (K) - Absolute Temperature Scale

William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin - Creator of the Kelvin Temperature ScaleWilliam Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin (1824-1907)

The Kelvin scale, named after British physicist William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, represents the absolute temperature scale and is fundamental to scientific measurements. This comprehensive guide explores the history, applications, and significance of the Kelvin temperature scale in modern science.

Lord Kelvin developed this absolute temperature scale in the mid-19th century, proposing in 1848 a temperature measurement system based on the laws of thermodynamics rather than arbitrary reference points. The scale was later refined and officially adopted as the SI unit for temperature in 1967.

The Kelvin scale is unique among temperature scales as it starts at absolute zero (0 K), the theoretical temperature at which all thermal motion ceases. This makes it particularly valuable for scientific calculations in physics, chemistry, and engineering, where absolute temperature measurements are crucial.

Key temperature points in the Kelvin scale include:

  • Absolute zero: 0 K (-273.15°C)
  • Water freezing point: 273.15 K
  • Water boiling point: 373.15 K
  • Average human body temperature: 310.15 K
  • Sun's surface temperature: approximately 5,778 K

The Kelvin scale has been used to measure some of the most extreme temperatures in the universe. The coldest temperature ever achieved in a laboratory was 0.0000000001 K, while the highest temperatures recorded in nuclear fusion experiments have reached hundreds of millions of Kelvin. In space, temperatures range from near absolute zero in deep space to millions of Kelvin in stars and supernovae.

Common Kelvin to Fahrenheit Conversions

Kelvin to Fahrenheit Conversion Guide

Converting Kelvin to Fahrenheit is important for scientific research and engineering applications. Our calculator uses the formula F = K × 9/5 - 459.67 for precise conversions.

Important Kelvin to Fahrenheit conversions:

  • 0 K = -459.67°F (absolute zero)
  • 273.15 K = 32°F (freezing point of water)
  • 373.15 K = 212°F (boiling point of water)
  • 310.15 K = 98.6°F (human body temperature)

This conversion is particularly useful for:

  • Scientific research and analysis
  • Engineering applications
  • Thermodynamic calculations
  • Temperature-sensitive processes

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