Temperature Interval Converter
Convert temperature differences (intervals) — not absolute temperatures — between Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, and Rankine scales. A change of 1 °C equals a change of 1 K and 1.8 °F.
Common Temperature Interval Conversions
| From | To |
|---|---|
| 1 °C change | 1.8 °F change |
| 1 °C change | 1 K change |
| 10 °C | 18 °F |
| 5 °C | 9 °F |
Temperature Interval Unit Definitions
- Celsius (°C)
- Temperature difference on the Celsius scale.
- Fahrenheit (°F)
- Temperature difference on the Fahrenheit scale.
- Kelvin (K)
- Temperature difference on the absolute Kelvin scale.
- Rankine (°R)
- Temperature difference on the absolute Rankine scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are temperature intervals different from absolute conversions?
Intervals use the size of the degree, not the zero point. Celsius and Kelvin degrees are the same size; Fahrenheit and Rankine degrees are 1.8× larger.
How do I convert a temperature change from °C to °F?
Multiply by 1.8. A 5 °C increase = 9 °F increase.
When does the difference between interval and absolute conversion matter?
When calculating temperature differences in physics or engineering (e.g. ΔT in Q = mcΔT), always use intervals. For a thermostat set-point or weather report, use absolute conversions.