What is Kelvin to Celsius Conversion?

Converting Kelvin to Celsius helps you understand temperatures expressed in the absolute scale. While Kelvin is common in science, education, and technical specifications, Celsius provides the familiar context most people use daily.

When You'll Encounter Kelvin

You might need to convert Kelvin to Celsius when:

Studying science - Physics and chemistry textbooks often use Kelvin
Reading specifications - Color temperature for bulbs and monitors is in Kelvin
Checking data - Scientific articles and research papers use Kelvin
Learning about space - Space and astronomy content reports temperatures in Kelvin

The Simple Conversion

The formula is straightforward: °C = K − 273.15. Simply subtract 273.15 from any Kelvin value to get Celsius. Both scales use the same degree size, making conversion easy.

Understanding the Scale

Kelvin starts at absolute zero (0 K = -273.15°C), the coldest possible temperature. Room temperature is about 293-298 K (20-25°C), and water boils at 373.15 K (100°C).

How to Use the Kelvin to Celsius Converter

Simple Conversion Steps

Enter Kelvin value - Type the temperature in the left field
Read Celsius result - See the familiar temperature on the right
Copy or share - Use the copy button to save the result

Common Temperature Conversions

0 K = -273.15°C - Absolute zero (coldest possible)
233 K = -40°C - Extremely cold
273 K = 0°C - Approximately freezing point
293 K = 20°C - Room temperature
310 K = 37°C - Body temperature
373 K = 100°C - Approximately boiling point

Color Temperature Reference

For lighting and displays, color temperature in Kelvin describes the warmth or coolness of light:

2700-3000 K - Warm/soft white (yellowish)
4000 K - Neutral white
5000-6500 K - Cool/daylight white (bluish)

Converter Features

Accurate Conversion

The converter uses the exact offset of 273.15, providing precise Celsius results for any Kelvin input.

Real-Time Results

See Celsius values update instantly as you type. This immediate feedback helps when comparing multiple temperature readings.

Practical Reference Points

The reference section shows everyday temperatures:

273 K (0°C) - Freezing point
293 K (20°C) - Room temperature
310 K (37°C) - Body temperature
373 K (100°C) - Boiling point

Bidirectional Swap

Use the swap button to convert Celsius back to Kelvin. Useful when you need to express everyday temperatures in scientific notation.

Copy to Clipboard

One-click copying lets you quickly transfer converted values to documents, messages, or other applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula to convert Kelvin to Celsius?

The formula is °C = K − 273.15. Simply subtract 273.15 from the Kelvin temperature to get the Celsius equivalent.

What is absolute zero?

Absolute zero (0 K or -273.15°C) is the theoretical temperature where all molecular motion stops. It's the coldest possible temperature and cannot be reached in practice.

Why is Kelvin used for color temperature?

Color temperature describes how warm or cool a light source appears. Lower Kelvin values (2700-3000 K) produce warm, yellowish light, while higher values (5000-6500 K) produce cool, bluish light.

What is room temperature in Kelvin?

Standard room temperature of 20°C equals 293.15 K. A comfortable 25°C equals 298.15 K.

Can Kelvin values be negative?

No. Kelvin is an absolute scale that starts at absolute zero (0 K). All Kelvin values are zero or positive.

What is the difference between Kelvin and Celsius degree sizes?

Kelvin and Celsius use the same degree size. A 1-degree change in Celsius equals a 1-degree change in Kelvin. They only differ in their zero points.

Kelvin to Celsius