Fahrenheit to Kelvin

What is the formula to convert Fahrenheit to Kelvin?

To convert a temperature from Fahrenheit (°F) to Kelvin (K), you can use the following formula:

$$ K = \frac{5}{9}(F - 32) + 273.15 $$

This formula first converts Fahrenheit to Celsius and then adds 273.15 to convert Celsius to Kelvin.

How would you convert 100°F to Kelvin?

To convert 100°F to Kelvin, use the conversion formula:

$$ K = \frac{5}{9}(100 - 32) + 273.15 $$

First, calculate the Celsius equivalent:

$$ \frac{5}{9}(100 - 32) = \frac{5}{9} \times 68 = 37.78 $$

Then, convert Celsius to Kelvin:

$$ 37.78 + 273.15 = 310.93 \, K $$

So, 100°F is approximately 310.93 K.

Why do we add 273.15 when converting Celsius to Kelvin?

The addition of 273.15 is necessary because 0°C is equivalent to 273.15 K. The Kelvin scale starts at absolute zero, which is -273.15°C. Thus, adding 273.15 shifts the Celsius scale to the Kelvin scale.

Is the Fahrenheit to Kelvin conversion linear?

Yes, the conversion between Fahrenheit and Kelvin is linear because it involves a direct proportional relationship and a constant addition. The linearity comes from the equation:

$$ K = \frac{5}{9}(F - 32) + 273.15 $$

Both the multiplication by $\frac{5}{9}$ and the addition of 273.15 are linear transformations.

How do temperature differences compare in Fahrenheit and Kelvin?

Temperature differences are directly proportional when converting between Fahrenheit and Kelvin. For instance, a change of 1°F is equivalent to a change of $\frac{5}{9}$ K. This is derived from the conversion factor $\frac{5}{9}$ used in the formula:

$$ \Delta K = \frac{5}{9} \Delta F $$

This means that a difference of 1°F corresponds to a difference of approximately 0.5556 K.