Fahrenheit to Kelvin Calculator
Convert temperatures from Fahrenheit to Kelvin instantly. Essential for scientific calculations and international temperature conversions.
255.37 K
0°F
-17.78°C
Formula
K = (°F - 32) × 5/9 + 273.15
Enter a value to see the calculation
Quick Answer: Fahrenheit to Kelvin Conversion
To convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin: subtract 32, multiply by 5/9, then add 273.15. This two-step process first converts to Celsius, then to Kelvin.
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian
15+ years experience
PhD from Yale University. Published mathematical historian ensuring precision in all calculations.
Education
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Table of Contents
How to Convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin
Converting Fahrenheit to Kelvin requires a two-step process because the scales have different origins and degree sizes. We first convert to Celsius, then to Kelvin.
The Formula
K = (°F - 32) × 5/9 + 273.15
Or simplified: K = (°F + 459.67) × 5/9
Step-by-Step Example
- Start with your Fahrenheit temperature (e.g., 68°F - room temperature)
- Subtract 32: 68 - 32 = 36
- Multiply by 5/9: 36 × 5/9 = 20
- Add 273.15: 20 + 273.15 = 293.15
- The result is 293.15 Kelvin
Pro Tip: For Fahrenheit to Kelvin, you can also use the direct formula: K = (°F + 459.67) × 5/9. This single-step formula gives the same result.
Temperature Conversion Table
Reference table for common temperature conversions between Fahrenheit, Kelvin, and Celsius:
| Description | Fahrenheit (°F) | Kelvin (K) | Celsius (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Zero | -459.67°F | 0.00 K | -273.15°C |
| Very Cold Day | 0°F | 255.37 K | -17.78°C |
| Water Freezing | 32°F | 273.15 K | 0°C |
| Cool Day | 50°F | 283.15 K | 10°C |
| Room Temperature | 68°F | 293.15 K | 20°C |
| Warm Day | 77°F | 298.15 K | 25°C |
| Human Body | 98.6°F | 310.15 K | 37°C |
| Hot Day | 104°F | 313.15 K | 40°C |
| Water Boiling | 212°F | 373.15 K | 100°C |
Understanding Temperature Scales
Fahrenheit (°F)
Used primarily in the United States. Water freezes at 32°F and boils at 212°F.
Named after Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit
Kelvin (K)
SI unit for science. Starts at absolute zero (0 K). No negative values.
Named after Lord Kelvin
Celsius (°C)
Used worldwide. Water freezes at 0°C and boils at 100°C at standard pressure.
Named after Anders Celsius
Key Difference: While Fahrenheit and Celsius can have negative values, Kelvin cannot—it starts at absolute zero, the lowest possible temperature in the universe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the formula to convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin?
To convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin: K = (°F - 32) × 5/9 + 273.15. For example, 68°F = (68 - 32) × 5/9 + 273.15 = 293.15 K.
What is 32°F in Kelvin?
32°F (the freezing point of water) equals 273.15 Kelvin. This is also equal to 0°C. This is a key reference point for temperature conversions.
What is absolute zero in Fahrenheit?
Absolute zero (0 K) equals -459.67°F. This is the coldest possible temperature, where all molecular motion theoretically stops.
Why use Kelvin instead of Fahrenheit in science?
Kelvin is preferred in science because it's an absolute scale starting at absolute zero, making it essential for thermodynamic equations. Many physics formulas require Kelvin to work correctly, especially gas laws.
What is room temperature in Kelvin?
Room temperature (68-77°F or 20-25°C) is approximately 293-298 Kelvin. Standard room temperature of 68°F (20°C) equals 293.15 K.
How do I convert Kelvin back to Fahrenheit?
To convert Kelvin to Fahrenheit: °F = (K - 273.15) × 9/5 + 32. For example, 300 K = (300 - 273.15) × 9/5 + 32 = 80.33°F.
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Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian | PhD from Yale
Dr. Lawrence is a published mathematical historian with a PhD from Yale University. She ensures mathematical precision and accuracy in all our calculations, conversions, and academic score calculators. Her expertise spans computational mathematics and educational assessment.
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