90 Degrees F to C Definitions and Examples
The Difference Between the Two Scales
Fahrenheit and Celsius are two different scales used to measure temperature.
Fahrenheit (°F) is the temperature scale named after German physicist Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit (1686–1736), who proposed it in 1724. Its zero point was originally based on the freezing point of a mixture of ice, water and ammonium chloride. This scale is now defined by setting the freezing point of water at 32 degrees and the boiling point at 212 degrees.
Celsius (°C) is the temperature scale named after Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius (1701–1744), who proposed it in 1742. The zero point on this scale is set at the freezing point of water and 100 degrees marks the boiling point of water. So, 0°C = 273.15K and 100°C = 373.15K.
How to Convert Temperatures
When looking at the different scales for measuring temperature, it can be confusing to try and convert from one to the other. Here is a quick guide on how to convert temperatures between Fahrenheit and Celsius.
The freezing point of water is 32°F (0°C), and the boiling point of water is 212°F (100°C). So, to convert a temperature in Fahrenheit to Celsius, you would subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit number, then divide by 1.8. For example, 75°F – 32 = 43. 43 / 1.8 = 23.9°C.
To convert a temperature in Celsius back to Fahrenheit, you would multiply by 1.8, then add 32 back in. For example, 25°C x 1.8 = 45 + 32 = 77°F
What is the Boiling Point in Celsius?
The boiling point of water is 100°C or 212°F. The boiling point of a liquid varies depending on the surrounding atmospheric pressure, but it is usually close to this value. Liquids boil when their vapor pressure equals the atmospheric pressure. Vapor pressure is the pressure exerted by a gas (or vapor) in equilibrium with its non-vapor phases.
Water boils at 100°C (212°F) at sea level, but only at about 95°C (203°F) at 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) above sea level. This is because the atmospheric pressure is lower at high altitudes and the water vapor can escape more easily. The boiling point of a liquid varies depending on the surrounding pressure, but it is usually very close to the standard boiling point of water.
The Formula for Converting
To convert a temperature in degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius, use this formula:
C = (F – 32) / 1.8
For example, if the temperature is 72 degrees Fahrenheit, the equation would look like this:
C = (72 – 32) / 1.8 = 22 °C
Example Conversions
Fahrenheit and Celsius are two different ways of measuring temperature. While Fahrenheit is the standard in the United States, Celsius is more commonly used in other parts of the world. Here are some example conversions from Fahrenheit to Celsius:
-50°F = -45.6°C
0°F = -17.8°C
32°F = 0°C
68°F = 20°C
100°F = 37.8°C
To convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, you will need to know the formula. The formula is: (degrees F – 32) / 1.8 = degrees C. Once you have the formula memorized, converting between the two scales is a breeze!
When is Celsius Used?
Celsius is most often used in scientific settings, as it provides a more accurate reading than Fahrenheit. For example, when taking the temperature of someone with a fever, a Celsius thermometer would be used rather than a Fahrenheit one.
Conclusion
The relationship between Fahrenheit and Celsius is one that often confuses people. Hopefully, this article has helped to clear up any confusion by providing a thorough explanation of the two units of measurement and how to convert between them. Now that you know more about the subject, it will be easier for you to understand weather reports and temperatures given in either unit. The next time you’re out in the heat wave or bundling up for a cold snap, remember these tips and you’ll be able to quickly figure out just how hot or cold it really is!