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Fahrenheit to Kelvin - How to Convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin
The Fahrenheit (°F) scale is widely used in the United States, while the Kelvin (K) scale is the standard for scientific and engineering applications. Unlike Fahrenheit or Celsius, Kelvin is an absolute temperature scale, meaning it starts at absolute zero—the lowest possible temperature, where all molecular motion stops.
To convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin, use this formula:
Kelvin (K) = (Fahrenheit - 32) × 5/9 + 273.15
For example, if you want to convert 212°F to Kelvin:
(212 - 32) × 5/9 + 273.15 = 373.15 K
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Do you know?
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Absolute zero (0 K) is equivalent to −459.67°F, the theoretical temperature where atoms stop moving completely.
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The Kelvin scale does not use degrees (°) like Fahrenheit or Celsius; temperatures are simply written as Kelvin (K).
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NASA and astrophysicists use Kelvin when measuring the temperature of stars, planets, and cosmic background radiation.
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The sun's surface temperature is about 5,778 K, which is roughly 9,940°F or 5,505°C.
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Liquid nitrogen boils at 77 K (−321°F or −196°C) and is commonly used in cryogenics and scientific experiments.
The Legacy of Lord Kelvin
The Kelvin scale is named after William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, a British physicist and engineer who contributed to the study of thermodynamics. He was instrumental in defining the concept of absolute zero, which is the foundation of the Kelvin scale.
In addition to his temperature work, Lord Kelvin played a key role in laying the first transatlantic telegraph cable in the 19th century, revolutionizing global communication. His contributions to science remain influential in physics, engineering, and space exploration.
Conclusion
Converting Fahrenheit to Kelvin is straightforward—subtract 32 from Fahrenheit, multiply by 5/9, and add 273.15. While Fahrenheit is mainly used in daily life in the U.S., Kelvin is essential for scientific calculations, engineering, and space exploration.
