How To Convert Fahrenheit To Kelvin

An essential skill for scientists specializing in Earth sciences, chemistry or physics is to be able to convert temperatures using a mathematical formula between the metric scale Kelvin–named after Scottish scientist William Thomson, first Baron Kelvin and based on the boiling and freezing points of water extended to include the theoretical temperature of absolute zero, or complete absence of heat–and Fahrenheit, named for German physicist Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit and customarily used in weather reporting in the United States.

Step 1

Determine the number of degrees in Fahrenheit (F).

Step 2

Subtract 32 from degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3

Multiply the resulting number in Step 2 by 5/9.

Step 4

Add 273 to the number you found in Step 3. This will give you the degrees Fahrenheit in Kelvin. The total mathematical formula looks like this: K = 5/9 (° F – 32) + 273