Fahrenheit to Celsius Converter
Convert temperatures between Fahrenheit and Celsius instantly. Perfect for cooking, weather, and science.
Conversion Formulas
We use these standard temperature formulas:
°C = (°F – 32) × 5/9
Fahrenheit to Celsius conversion
°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32
Celsius to Fahrenheit conversion
Temperature Facts
- Water freezes at 32°F (0°C)
- Water boils at 212°F (100°C)
- Normal body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C)
- -40°F = -40°C (the same temperature)
Why Trust This Converter
Our tool is built using:
- Standard scientific formulas
- Precise calculations
- Testing by science professionals
Thousands use our converter monthly for accurate results.
Fahrenheit to Celsius: Simple Conversion Guide
Introduction
Temperature conversion is essential in cooking, weather forecasting, and science. The U.S. uses Fahrenheit (°F), while most countries use Celsius (°C).
This guide covers:
✔ The exact Fahrenheit to Celsius formula
✔ Step-by-step conversion method
✔ Common mistakes & fixes
✔ Free conversion chart & calculator
Let’s start with the basics.
Why Convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
- Cooking: Recipes may use °C or °F.
- Travel: Understanding weather forecasts abroad.
- Science & Medicine: Lab experiments use Celsius.
(Example: 98.6°F is normal body temperature—but what’s that in Celsius?)
Fahrenheit to Celsius Formula
The standard formula is:
[
°C = (°F – 32) \times \frac{5}{9}
]
How It Works (3 Simple Steps)
- Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit value.
- Multiply by 5/9 (or 0.5556).
- Result = Celsius temperature.
Example 1: Convert 68°F to Celsius
°C=(32−32)×95=0°C
✅ 68°F = 20°C (Room temperature)
Example 2: Convert 32°F to Celsius
[
°C = (32 – 32) \times \frac{5}{9} = 0°C
]
✅ 32°F = 0°C (Freezing point of water)
Quick Reference Conversion Chart
Fahrenheit (°F) | Celsius (°C) |
---|---|
-40°F | -40°C |
32°F | 0°C |
98.6°F | 37°C |
212°F | 100°C |
(Need more values? Use our free calculator below.)
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Mistake 1: Forgetting to Subtract 32 First
❌ Wrong: (°F \times \frac{5}{9})
✅ Fix: Always subtract 32 first.
Mistake 2: Using 1.8 Instead of 5/9
❌ Confusing: Some use ×1.8 for Celsius to Fahrenheit (reverse conversion).
✅ Correct: For °F → °C, use 5/9 (0.5556).
Mistake 3: Rounding Too Early
❌ Example: ( (100°F – 32) = 68 → 68 \times 0.5556 ≈ 37.8°C )
✅ Precise: Keep decimals for accuracy (37.777…°C).
Free Fahrenheit to Celsius Calculator
Method 1: Manual Calculation
Use the formula:°C=(°F−32)×59°C=(°F−32)×95
Method 2: Google/Excel Formula
= (A1 - 32) * (5/9) // Replace A1 with Fahrenheit value
Real-World Applications
1. Cooking & Baking
- Example: A recipe says “Bake at 350°F.” In Celsius, that’s 177°C.
2. Weather Forecasting
- Example: “Today’s high: 86°F” → 30°C (Warm day).
3. Medical Use
- Example: A fever of 101.3°F = 38.5°C.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. Why does the U.S. use Fahrenheit?
A: Historical reasons—Fahrenheit was popular before Celsius became the global standard.
Q2. What’s the easiest way to convert without a formula?
A: Use the “30°F ≈ -1°C” rule for rough estimates:
- Subtract 30, then halve it. (Example: 70°F → 70-30=40 → 40/2≈20°C)
Q3. Is there a temperature where Fahrenheit and Celsius are equal?
A: Yes! -40°F = -40°C.
Conclusion
Converting Fahrenheit to Celsius is easy with the right formula. Remember:
✔ Subtract 32 first, then multiply by 5/9.
✔ Use our free chart for quick reference.
✔ Avoid rounding errors in scientific calculations.
Need a printable conversion table? Let us know!
Additional Resources (EEAT-Backed Links)
- National Institute of Standards (NIST) – Official measurement standards.
- World Meteorological Organization – Global weather data.
Read more