Kelvin to Degree Centigrade Conversion

Convert between Kelvin and Degree Centigrade quickly and accurately.

From Kelvin

To Degree Centigrade

°C

How to Convert Kelvin to Degree Centigrade

Conversion Formula

1 K = 1 °C

1 °C = 1 K

Example

Convert 15 K to °C:

15 K = 15 × 1 °C = 15 °C

Unit Information

Learn about the temperature interval units you're converting between

Kelvin

Definition

The kelvin (K) is the SI base unit of thermodynamic temperature and is also used for temperature intervals. When measuring temperature differences, one kelvin equals one degree Celsius, making it the standard unit for temperature interval measurements in scientific and engineering applications.

History/Origin

Named after Lord Kelvin (William Thomson), the kelvin was established as the SI base unit for temperature in 1967. It was designed to provide an absolute temperature scale where zero represents absolute zero, and temperature intervals are measured in the same units as the temperature scale itself.

Current Use

Widely used in scientific research, engineering, and industrial applications for measuring temperature differences and intervals. It is the standard unit for temperature interval measurements in thermodynamics, heat transfer analysis, and temperature control systems.

Multiplier

Offset

Degree Centigrade

°C

Definition

The degree centigrade (°C) is an alternative name for degree Celsius, representing the same temperature interval unit. It is equal to one kelvin when measuring temperature differences and is used interchangeably with degree Celsius in many contexts.

History/Origin

The term "centigrade" was historically used to describe the temperature scale now known as Celsius. It means "hundred degrees" and refers to the 100-degree interval between the freezing and boiling points of water. For temperature intervals, it maintains the same scale as the kelvin.

Current Use

Used interchangeably with degree Celsius in many contexts, particularly in older literature and some engineering applications. It represents the same temperature interval as degree Celsius and is commonly used in temperature difference measurements.

Multiplier

Offset