Question

A one-step conversion is sufficient to convert a temperature in the Celsius scale to the Kelvin scale, but not to the Fahrenheit scale. Explain.

Short answer

Celsius to Kelvin is a one-step addition, while Celsius to Fahrenheit needs multiplication and addition.

Step-by-step solution

- Understanding Temperature Scales

Temperature can be measured in different scales, with Celsius (°C), Kelvin (K), and Fahrenheit (°F) being the most common. Each scale uses different reference points for freezing and boiling points of water.

- Celsius to Kelvin Conversion

To convert from Celsius to Kelvin, the formula used is simple: \[ K = °C + 273.15 \]This is a straightforward addition of 273.15 to the Celsius temperature.

- Celsius to Fahrenheit Conversion

Unlike the Celsius to Kelvin conversion, converting Celsius to Fahrenheit requires a two-step process involving both multiplication and addition: \[ °F = (°C \times 1.8) + 32 \]This necessitates an additional step making it more complex than the Celsius to Kelvin conversion.

- Summarizing the Explanation

The one-step addition of 273.15 in Celsius to Kelvin conversion makes it straightforward, while the multiplication followed by addition process in Celsius to Fahrenheit conversion requires two steps.

Key concepts

Celsius to Kelvin

The Kelvin scale is an absolute temperature scale starting at absolute zero, the lowest possible temperature. To convert Celsius to Kelvin, you only need to add 273.15. This is because by definition, 0°C is equivalent to 273.15K.
By simply using the formula:
\[ K = °C + 273.15 \]
you can convert any temperature from Celsius to Kelvin in one step.
For example, if you have a temperature of 25°C, you can convert it to Kelvin like this:
\[ K = 25 + 273.15 = 298.15\]
This simplicity is why Celsius to Kelvin is considered a direct and straightforward conversion.

Celsius to Fahrenheit

Converting Celsius to Fahrenheit is a bit more complex as it involves both multiplication and addition. The formula to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit is:
\[ °F = (°C \times 1.8) + 32 \]
This means you need to first multiply the temperature in Celsius by 1.8 and then add 32.
For instance, to convert 25°C to Fahrenheit, you would calculate:
\[ °F = (25 \times 1.8) + 32 = 45 + 32 = 77°F\]
Given this two-step process, converting Celsius to Fahrenheit takes a bit more effort than converting Celsius to Kelvin.
However, by understanding the formula and the steps involved, you can easily make this conversion.

Temperature Scales

Temperature scales are systems used to measure temperature. The three most common scales are Celsius, Kelvin, and Fahrenheit.

• Celsius (°C): This scale is based on the freezing point (0°C) and boiling point (100°C) of water at sea level.
• Kelvin (K): An absolute temperature scale starting at absolute zero (-273.15°C). One advantage of Kelvin is that it avoids negative numbers for scientific calculations.
• Fahrenheit (°F): Commonly used in the United States, it sets the freezing point of water at 32°F and the boiling point at 212°F.

Different temperature scales have specific uses depending on the context and regional preference. Understanding how to convert between these scales is essential for various scientific, educational, and practical applications.
With the right formulas and a bit of practice, you can effortlessly switch between Celsius, Kelvin, and Fahrenheit.