Convert Kelvin (K) (kelvin) to Celsius (°C) (celsius)
Category: Temperature
1 kelvin = -272.15 celsius
High-precision rounding: 6 decimals
How to convert kelvin (k) to celsius (°c)
We convert by pivoting through the SI base unit for Temperature and applying exact factors where applicable.
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Examples
Formula: °C = K − 273.15
Temperature conversions use exact affine formulas (ratio + offset).
Common mistakes
- Using only a ratio (×1.8 or ×0.555…) without adding/subtracting the offset (±32, +273.15).
- Rounding too early; convert first, then round to the desired precision.
About Temperature
Temperature scales combine ratios and offsets. Kelvin is absolute (no negative values), Celsius offsets Kelvin by 273.15, and Fahrenheit uses a different step and zero point. Because offsets exist, temperature conversions require both a factor and an addition/subtraction.
About Kelvin (K)
Kelvin (K)
Absolute SI scale starting at 0 K with no negative values. Used for thermodynamics, cryogenics, and color temperature (K).
History: Defined via the Boltzmann constant since 2019, linking temperature directly to energy at the particle level.
About Celsius (°C)
Celsius (°C)
Offset scale with 0 °C at water’s freezing point and 100 °C at boiling (at 1 atm). Converts to Kelvin by adding 273.15. Widely used in daily weather and science.
History: Named for Anders Celsius (1740s). Redefined through absolute thermodynamic scales as metrology advanced.
Related conversions from kelvin
- kelvin → fahrenheit Fahrenheit (°F)
- kelvin → rankine Rankine (°R)
Related conversions to celsius
- fahrenheit → celsius Fahrenheit (°F)
- rankine → celsius Rankine (°R)