Kelvin to Celsius

1. What is the formula to convert Kelvin to Celsius?

To convert Kelvin to Celsius, you subtract 273.15 from the Kelvin temperature. The formula is:

$$ T{Celsius} = T{Kelvin} - 273.15 $$

2. Why is it important to know how to convert Kelvin to Celsius?

Understanding the conversion between Kelvin and Celsius is important because these are two common temperature scales used in different scientific contexts. Kelvin is often used in physics and astronomy due to its absolute nature, while Celsius is commonly used in everyday temperature measurements and most scientific studies.

3. If the temperature is 300 Kelvin, what is it in Celsius?

Using the formula:

$$ T_{Celsius} = 300\,K - 273.15 = 26.85^\circ C $$

So, 300 Kelvin is equal to 26.85 degrees Celsius.

4. How do Kelvin and Celsius scales differ in their starting points?

The Kelvin scale starts at absolute zero, which is the point where all thermal motion ceases, defined as 0 K. This is equivalent to -273.15°C on the Celsius scale. Therefore, the Kelvin scale does not have negative numbers, unlike the Celsius scale.

5. Can temperatures in Kelvin be negative? Explain why or why not.

No, temperatures in Kelvin cannot be negative. The Kelvin scale is an absolute scale based on absolute zero, the theoretical point at which there is no thermal energy. Since absolute zero is the lowest possible temperature, there are no negative values on the Kelvin scale.