The Kelvin (K) in Temperature

What is Kelvin (K)

The Kelvin (K) is one of the primary units of measurement for temperature in the International System of Units (SI). It is named after the Scottish physicist William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, who contributed to the understanding of thermodynamics. The Kelvin scale is an absolute temperature scale where 0 K, known as absolute zero, is the theoretical lowest temperature possible. At this point, all molecular motion stops.

The major advantage of using the Kelvin scale is that it avoids negative numbers, as it starts at absolute zero. This makes calculations in physics and engineering easier, especially when using gas laws or thermodynamic equations.

To convert temperatures between Kelvin and other temperature scales, specific formulas are used. The Kelvin scale is directly related to degrees Celsius (°C) and can be easily converted using the formula:

And inversely:

Common Conversion Values

Here are some common conversion values between Kelvin and other temperature units:

• Celsius (°C):

  1K=−272.15°C
  This means if you have a temperature of 1 K, it is equivalent to -272.15 °C.

• Fahrenheit (°F):

  1K=−457.87°F
  Therefore, 1 K translates to -457.87 °F.

• Rankine (°R):

  1K=1.8°R
  A rise of 1 K corresponds to an increase of 1.8 °R.

• Newton (°N):

  1K=−89.8095°N
  Thus, 1 K is equal to -89.8095 °N.

• Réaumur (°Ré):

  1K=−217.72°Ré
  This shows that 1 K equals -217.72 °Ré.

• Rømer (°Rø):

  1K=−135.3788°Rø
  Thus, 1 K can also be converted to -135.3788 °Rø.

Understanding these conversions can be essential for scientists, engineers, and even enthusiasts who work with temperature measurements in various fields. The Kelvin scale plays a crucial role in scientific disciplines, particularly in thermodynamics and physical science, providing a consistent and absolute means of measuring thermal energy.