Why Convert Degrees Celsius to Kelvins?
Converting between degrees celsius (°C) and kelvins (K) is one of the most common temperature conversions. Whether for engineering, cooking, travel, or science, knowing how to quickly convert °C to K saves time and prevents errors.
Temperature conversion between °C and K is crucial for international travelers, medical professionals, and scientists. When traveling abroad, weather forecasts and thermostat settings use different scales — the US uses Fahrenheit while most countries use Celsius. Medical contexts are particularly critical: a body temperature of 37.0°C (98.6°F) is normal, but 38.0°C (100.4°F) indicates fever. In cooking, oven temperatures differ dramatically between recipes from different regions.
How to Convert Degrees Celsius to Kelvins
To convert degrees celsius to kelvins, use the following formula:
K = °C + 273.15
Example: 1 °C = 274.15 K
For example, 5 °C = 278.15 K, 10 °C = 283.15 K, and 100 °C = 373.15 K. Our calculator above performs this conversion instantly with full precision — no rounding errors.
Common Use Cases
- Water freezing point (273.15 K): 0 °C = 273.15 K
- Water boiling point (373.15 K): 100 °C = 373.15 K
- Standard room temperature (298.15 K): 25 °C = 298.15 K
- Absolute zero (0 K): -273.15 °C = 0 K
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Linear assumption: Temperature conversion between °C and °F is NOT a simple multiplication — it involves both scaling and offset. Always use the full formula.
- Negative values: Below -40, Celsius and Fahrenheit values diverge significantly. -40°C = -40°F is the only point where they're equal.
- Body temperature precision: Normal body temperature is 37.0°C (98.6°F), but a fever starts at 37.5°C (99.5°F). The 0.5°C difference matters medically.
Pro Tips
- Memorize the factor: 1 °C = 274.15 K. For quick mental math, remember this base conversion.
- Quick reference: 5 °C = 278.15 K · 10 °C = 283.15 K · 25 °C = 298.15 K · 50 °C = 323.15 K · 100 °C = 373.15 K
- Bookmark this page: Save this converter for instant access. It works offline once loaded — no internet needed.
Degrees Celsius to Kelvins Conversion Table
| °C | K |
|---|---|
| -40 °C | 233.15 K |
| -20 °C | 253.15 K |
| 0 °C | 273.15 K |
| 10 °C | 283.15 K |
| 20 °C | 293.15 K |
| 25 °C | 298.15 K |
| 30 °C | 303.15 K |
| 37 °C | 310.15 K |
| 40 °C | 313.15 K |
| 50 °C | 323.15 K |
| 60 °C | 333.15 K |
| 80 °C | 353.15 K |
| 100 °C | 373.15 K |
All values in this table are mathematically exact per NIST SP 811.