Temperature Converter
Convert between Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, and Rankine temperature scales. Get instant accurate conversions with helpful temperature references and validation.
Temperature Input
Most commonly used worldwide
Quick Set
Enter a Temperature
Please enter a temperature value to see instant conversions across all temperature scales with helpful references and validation.
How to Convert Temperatures
Enter Temperature
Type any temperature value in the input field. Supports positive and negative numbers with decimals.
Select Unit
Choose from Celsius (°C), Fahrenheit (°F), Kelvin (K), or Rankine (°R) as your input unit.
View Conversions
Get instant conversions to all temperature scales with color-coded results and descriptions.
Copy Results
Click copy buttons to save converted values to clipboard for use in other applications.
Understanding Temperature Scales
Celsius (°C)
The most widely used temperature scale globally, based on the freezing (0°C) and boiling (100°C) points of water.
- • Used in most countries worldwide
- • Standard in scientific applications
- • Weather reporting outside the US
- • Cooking and household use
Fahrenheit (°F)
Primarily used in the United States, with water freezing at 32°F and boiling at 212°F.
- • Standard in United States
- • Weather and everyday temperature
- • Medical and body temperature
- • HVAC and building systems
Kelvin (K)
The absolute temperature scale used in science, starting from absolute zero (0 K = -273.15°C).
- • Scientific and research applications
- • Physics and chemistry calculations
- • Astronomy and space science
- • Engineering and thermodynamics
Rankine (°R)
An absolute scale like Kelvin but using Fahrenheit-sized degrees, primarily used in engineering.
- • Engineering thermodynamics
- • US engineering applications
- • Heat transfer calculations
- • Industrial process design
Common Temperature Conversions
Water Temperatures
Body & Health
Cooking Temperatures
Temperature Conversion FAQ
What is absolute zero and why can't temperatures go below it?
Absolute zero is the theoretical temperature where all molecular motion stops. It's -273.15°C, -459.67°F, 0 K, or 0°R. Our converter prevents inputs below these limits as they're physically impossible.
Which temperature scale should I use for cooking?
Celsius is standard in most countries and professional cooking. Fahrenheit is common in US home cooking. Many modern ovens show both scales. Always check your recipe's units to avoid cooking disasters!
Why do scientists use Kelvin instead of Celsius?
Kelvin is an absolute scale starting from absolute zero, making it perfect for scientific calculations involving gas laws, thermodynamics, and energy equations where ratios and proportions matter.
How accurate are the temperature conversions?
Our conversions use precise mathematical formulas and display results to 2 decimal places. The calculations are accurate for all practical applications, from cooking to scientific work.