Rankine to Kelvin calculator
Convert Rankine to Kelvin instantly with our free online calculator. Perfect for weather, cooking, and scientific measurements.
Conversion Formula
K = R × 5/9What is Rankine?
Last updated: Apr 12, 2025Rankine (°R) - Absolute Temperature Scale in Fahrenheit Units
William John Macquorn Rankine (1820-1872)The Rankine scale, named after Scottish engineer and physicist William John Macquorn Rankine, is an absolute temperature scale that uses Fahrenheit degrees. This comprehensive guide explores the history, applications, and significance of the Rankine scale in engineering and thermodynamics.
Rankine proposed his temperature scale in 1859, building upon the work of Lord Kelvin. While Kelvin used the Celsius degree as his unit of measurement, Rankine chose to use the Fahrenheit degree, making his scale particularly useful for American engineers and scientists who were more familiar with the Fahrenheit system.
The Rankine scale is defined with the following key temperature points:
- Absolute zero: 0°R
- Water freezing point: 491.67°R
- Water boiling point: 671.67°R
- Average human body temperature: 558.27°R
While not as widely used as the Kelvin scale, the Rankine scale maintains its relevance in specialized fields, particularly in the United States. It is commonly used in:
- Aerospace engineering
- Thermodynamics
- Power plant design
- Mechanical engineering
- HVAC systems
William Rankine's contributions to science and engineering extended far beyond the temperature scale that bears his name. He was a pioneer in thermodynamics and made significant contributions to the understanding of heat engines and the mechanical theory of heat. His work helped bridge the gap between theoretical physics and practical engineering, and his temperature scale remains an important tool in technical applications today.
Common Rankine to Kelvin Conversions
Rankine to Kelvin Conversion Guide
Converting Rankine to Kelvin is important for scientific research and thermodynamic calculations. Our calculator uses the simple formula K = R × 5/9 for precise conversions.
Important Rankine to Kelvin conversions:
- 0°R = 0 K (absolute zero)
- 491.67°R = 273.15 K (freezing point of water)
- 671.67°R = 373.15 K (boiling point of water)
- 558.27°R = 310.15 K (human body temperature)
This conversion is particularly useful for:
- Scientific research and analysis
- Engineering applications
- Thermodynamic calculations
- Temperature-sensitive processes