How to Convert Celsius to Kelvin: Concept, Formula, and Major Differences

Converting temperatures from Celsius to Kelvin is important both in everyday situations and in science. This article provides the concept of Celsius and Kelvin, its difference and formula.

Aug 6, 2024, 11:59 IST
Celsius to Kelvin: Concept, Formula and Key Difference
Celsius to Kelvin: Concept, Formula and Key Difference

Converting temperatures from Celsius to Kelvin is important both in everyday situations and in science. The Celsius scale is commonly used and is based on the freezing point (0°C) and boiling point (100°C) of water. The Kelvin scale, used mainly in science and engineering, starts at absolute zero, where atomic movement stops. To convert from Celsius to Kelvin, you simply add 273.15 to the Celsius temperature. This conversion is key for accurate scientific measurements and calculations.

What is Celsius?

The Celsius temperature scale is defined by international agreement in terms of two fixed points; the ice point and the steam point. The temperature of the ice point is defined as 0° Celsius and the steam point as 100° Celsius.

What is Kelvin?

The definition of Kelvin is the fraction of 1/273.16 of the thermodynamic temperature of the triple point of water. The unit of Kelvin or thermodynamic temperature scale is called the Kelvin.

How to Convert Celcius to Kelvin?

Here is the Celsius to Kelvin conversion

T = Tc + 273.15

Here is the Kelvin to Celsius conversion

Tc = T – 273.15

Difference Between Celsius and Kelvin

Here’s a table that highlights the key differences between the Celsius and Kelvin temperature scales. This table provides a clear comparison between Celsius and Kelvin, focusing on their definitions, reference points, usage, and relevance:

Feature

Celsius

Kelvin

Definition

Metric temperature scale with 0°C as the freezing point of water and 100°C as the boiling point.

Absolute temperature scale starting at absolute zero (0 K), where 0 K is the lowest possible temperature.

Freezing Point of Water

0°C

273.15 K

Boiling Point of Water

100°C

373.15 K

Absolute Zero

Not directly represented (−273.15°C)

0 K

Usage

Commonly used in everyday life and most countries.

Primarily used in scientific contexts and technical fields.

Reference Points

0°C (freezing), 100°C (boiling)

0 K (absolute zero), 273.15 K (freezing), 373.15 K (boiling)

Conversion Formula

N/A

K = °C + 273.15

Measurement Basis

Relative scale based on the freezing and boiling points of water.

Absolute scale based on the concept of absolute zero.

Scientific Relevance

Less commonly used in scientific equations.

Essential for scientific equations and laws (e.g., gas laws, thermodynamics).

Examples

Room temperature ~ 20°C, body temperature ~ 37°C

Room temperature ~ 293.15 K, body temperature ~ 310.15 K

In conclusion, converting from Celsius to Kelvin is a simple but important task. Celsius is what we use daily, while Kelvin is used in science to measure temperatures starting from absolute zero.  Understanding this conversion is essential for accurate scientific calculations and experiments. 

Also Check: 

Online Resources

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Anisha Mishra
Anisha Mishra

Content Writer

Anisha Mishra is a mass communication professional and content strategist with a total two years of experience. She's passionate about creating clear, results-driven content—from articles to social media posts—that genuinely connects with audiences. With a proven track record of shaping compelling narratives and boosting engagement for brands like Shiksha.com, she excels in the education sector, handling CBSE, State Boards, NEET, and JEE exams, especially during crucial result seasons. Blending expertise in traditional and new digital media, Anisha constantly explores current content trends. Connect with her on LinkedIn for fresh insights into education content strategy and audience behavior, and let's make a lasting impact together.
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