Temperature Conversion: What It Calculates
Temperature Conversion is useful when the same quantity needs to be expressed in a different unit or representation. The key is to confirm both the starting unit and the desired output unit before calculating.
The Formula or Method
Temperature conversion uses the relationship between the selected temperature scales; Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin use different zero points and increments.
Conversion method
The result is produced by applying the stated relationship in the direction shown by the input and output units.
Using Temperature Conversion
Start by identifying the source unit and the unit you want to obtain. Enter the numerical value exactly as shown by the calculator, then check the output unit before using the converted number.
- Choose the source unit used by the value.
- Enter the value without changing its unit midway through the calculation.
- Select or confirm the target unit.
- Compare the magnitude of the answer with a rough manual estimate.
Worked Example
20Β°C equals 68Β°F and 293.15 K.
Checking the Result
Because a conversion preserves the underlying quantity, converting the answer back should return approximately the original value, allowing for displayed rounding.