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Temperature • NIST Exact

Kelvins → Degrees Celsius

K → °C

1 K = -272.15 °C• NIST Exact

K → °C Reference Table

K °C
-40 K -313.15 °C
-20 K -293.15 °C
0 K -273.15 °C
10 K -263.15 °C
20 K -253.15 °C
25 K -248.15 °C
30 K -243.15 °C
37 K -236.15 °C
40 K -233.15 °C
50 K -223.15 °C
60 K -213.15 °C
80 K -193.15 °C
100 K -173.15 °C

Values based on NIST SP 811 conversion factors

🌍 Real-World Examples

Freezing point of water

273.15 K = 0 °C

Boiling point of water

373.15 K = 100 °C

Human body temperature (37 °C)

310.15 K = 37 °C

Absolute zero (-273.15 °C)

0 K = -273.15 °C

Why Convert Kelvins to Degrees Celsius?

Converting between kelvins (K) and degrees celsius (°C) is one of the most common temperature conversions. Whether for engineering, cooking, travel, or science, knowing how to quickly convert K to °C saves time and prevents errors.

Temperature conversion between K and °C 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 Kelvins to Degrees Celsius

To convert kelvins to degrees celsius, use the following formula:

°C = K − 273.15

Example: 1 K = -272.15 °C

For example, 5 K = -268.15 °C, 10 K = -263.15 °C, and 100 K = -173.15 °C. Our calculator above performs this conversion instantly with full precision — no rounding errors.

Common Use Cases

  • Freezing point of water: 273.15 K = 0 °C
  • Boiling point of water: 373.15 K = 100 °C
  • Human body temperature (37 °C): 310.15 K = 37 °C
  • Absolute zero (-273.15 °C): 0 K = -273.15 °C

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 K = -272.15 °C. For quick mental math, remember this base conversion.
  • Quick reference: 5 K = -268.15 °C · 10 K = -263.15 °C · 25 K = -248.15 °C · 50 K = -223.15 °C · 100 K = -173.15 °C
  • Bookmark this page: Save this converter for instant access. It works offline once loaded — no internet needed.

Kelvins to Degrees Celsius Conversion Table

K°C
-40 K-313.15 °C
-20 K-293.15 °C
0 K-273.15 °C
10 K-263.15 °C
20 K-253.15 °C
25 K-248.15 °C
30 K-243.15 °C
37 K-236.15 °C
40 K-233.15 °C
50 K-223.15 °C
60 K-213.15 °C
80 K-193.15 °C
100 K-173.15 °C

All values in this table are mathematically exact per NIST SP 811.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many degrees celsius are in 1 kelvin?

1 K equals -272.15 °C. This is an exact conversion factor defined by NIST.

How do I convert kelvins to degrees celsius?

Multiply the value in K by the conversion factor. For example, 10 K = -263.15 °C. Use our calculator above for instant results.

Is the kelvins to degrees celsius conversion exact?

Yes, this conversion is mathematically exact based on the international definition of these units (NIST SP 811).

Temperature More Conversions

°C → °F °F → °C °C → K °F → K K → °F