Dictionary

Celsius

Most European countries use the Celsius temperature scale in everyday life. Temperatures are given in “degrees Celsius” (abbreviated as °C). By definition, the zero point of this scale (0°C) is the melting point of water, while the temperature 100°C corresponds to its boiling point (both parts of the definition assume the same standard value for air pressure).

Relation to the Fahrenheit scale: X degrees Celsius correspond to (9/5 times X) +32 Fahrenheit, Y Fahrenheit are (Y-32)*5/9 degrees Celsius.

Relation to the Kelvin temperature scale used in physics: X degree Celsius are X plus 273.15 Kelvin, Y Kelvin are Y minus 273.15 degrees Celsius. In particular, differences in temperature are the same in Kelvin and in degrees Celsius; the only difference between the two scales is their choice of zero point.