Convert kelvin to Celsius
Please provide values below to convert kelvin [K] to Celsius [°C], or Convert Celsius to kelvin.
Converting kelvin to Celsius is not a simple multiplication — it follows a formula. As a reference, 1 K equals -272.15 °C and 10 K equals -263.15 °C. Use the calculator above for exact results.
Quick Reference
- 1 K = -272.15 °C
- 10 K = -263.15 °C
- 100 K = -173.15 °C
How to Convert Kelvin to Celsius
The conversion between kelvin and Celsius is not linear or involves a specific formula. Please use the calculator above for an accurate conversion.
To convert from kelvin to the base unit, the formula is: y = kelvin
To convert from the base unit to Celsius, the formula is: y = base_unit_value - 273.15
Kelvin to Celsius Conversion Table
| kelvin | Celsius |
|---|---|
| 1 K | -272.15 °C |
| 2 K | -271.15 °C |
| 3 K | -270.15 °C |
| 5 K | -268.15 °C |
| 10 K | -263.15 °C |
| 20 K | -253.15 °C |
| 50 K | -223.15 °C |
| 100 K | -173.15 °C |
| 500 K | 226.85 °C |
| 1000 K | 726.85 °C |
Kelvin
The kelvin (K) is the base unit of temperature in the International System of Units (SI), defined as 1/273.16 of the thermodynamic temperature of the triple point of water.
History/Origin
The kelvin was established in 1848 by Lord Kelvin (William Thomson) as a temperature scale based on absolute zero, replacing earlier thermodynamic temperature scales. It was officially adopted as an SI base unit in 1960.
Current Use
The kelvin is used worldwide in scientific and engineering contexts to measure thermodynamic temperature, especially in physics, chemistry, and related fields, providing a standard for temperature measurement without negative values.
Celsius
Celsius (°C) is a unit of temperature measurement where 0°C is the freezing point of water and 100°C is the boiling point at standard atmospheric pressure.
History/Origin
The Celsius scale was developed by Anders Celsius in 1742, originally with 0°C as the boiling point of water and 100°C as the freezing point, later reversed to its current form.
Current Use
Celsius is widely used worldwide for everyday temperature measurements, scientific research, and weather reporting, especially in most countries outside the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert kelvin to Celsius?
This conversion uses a formula rather than a fixed factor. For example, 10 K = -263.15 °C. Enter any value in the converter above for an instant, accurate result.
What is 100 kelvin in Celsius?
100 K is equal to -173.15 °C.