Celsius Conversion Calculator

Our Celsius to Fahrenheit converter is the easiest way to convert temperature scales.

Celsius Definition and Usage

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Joe Sexton

Joe is the creator of Inch Calculator and has over 20 years of experience in engineering and construction. He holds several degrees and certifications.

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The Celsius scale is used to measure temperature.

The degree Celsius is the SI derived unit for temperature in the metric system. A degree Celsius is sometimes also referred to as a degree centigrade. Celsius can be abbreviated as C; for example, 1 degree Celsius can be written as 1 °C.

What Is the Celsius Scale?

The Celsius temperature scale, also commonly referred to as the centigrade scale, is defined in relation to the kelvin. Specifically, degrees Celsius is equal to kelvins minus 273.15.^[1]

Important Temperatures In Degrees Celsius

Background and Origin

Named for it's creator Anders Celsius, who proposed it in 1742, the scale was initially defined with the boiling point of water being 0 degrees and the freezing point at 100 degrees. The scale was reversed the following year to match the definition we use today. The revised definition is largely the same definition we use today.

Uses

The vast majority of the world uses the Celsius temperature scale, most of which adopted the use of the scale when they adopted the use of metric units of measure. The United States and a few other countries however still use the Fahrenheit temperature scale.