TEMPERATURE CONVERSIONS

Concept: There are several systems used to measure temperature. The most common are Fahrenheit and Celsius (also called centigrade). Fahrenheit is commonly used in the United States. It is helpful to know how to convert temperature readings from one system to another, especially when traveling in different countries.

Steps for Converting Temperatures

Step 1 | Determine which of the two formulas below to use
Formula 1 | If you know the Fahrenheit temperature and are looking for the Celsius temperature then use the formula: (°F - 32) ÷ 1.8=°C. A variation of this formula is: .
Formula 2 | If you know the Celsius temperature and are looking for the Fahrenheit temperature then use the formula: (°C x 1.8) + 32=°F. A variation of this formula is: .
Step 2 | Substitute known numbers for variables.
Step 3 | Solve the equation.
Step 4 | Write final answer.

Example equals what in ?

Step 1 | Determine which of the two formulas below to use |
Formula 1 | If you know the Fahrenheit temperature and are looking for the Celsius temperature then use the formula: (°F - 32) ÷ 1.8=°C. | We are looking for °F.
Formula 2 | If you know the Celsius temperature and are looking for the Fahrenheit temperature then use the formula: (°C x 1.8) + 32=°F. | We know -23°C.
Step 2 | Substitute known numbers for variables. | (°C x 1.8) + 32=°F (-23 x 1.8) + 32=°F
Step 3 | Solve the equation. | (-23 x 1.8) + 32=°F (-41.4) + 32=°F -9.4=°F
Step 4 | Write the final answer. | -23°C = -9.4°F