Question

A patient exhibits a temperature of \(39^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\). What is the body temperature of the patient in \(\mathrm{K} ?\)

Short answer

The patient's temperature is 312.15 K.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Problem

The exercise requires converting the temperature from the Celsius scale to the Kelvin scale. The patient's temperature is given as \(39^{\circ}\text{C}\).

Recall the Conversion Formula

To convert a temperature from degrees Celsius to Kelvin, use the formula: \( T(K) = T(^{\circ}\text{C}) + 273.15 \).

Plug in the Given Temperature

Substitute the given temperature (\(39^{\circ}\text{C}\)) into the conversion formula: \[ T(K) = 39 + 273.15 \].

Perform the Calculation

Calculate the sum: \( 39 + 273.15 = 312.15 \).

Verify the Units

Make sure the final answer is in Kelvin, the correct unit for this problem.

Key concepts

Celsius to Kelvin

Converting temperatures from Celsius to Kelvin is a straightforward process. Both Celsius and Kelvin are units used to measure temperature, but each serves different purposes.

Celsius is often used in our daily life, especially in weather forecasts and on thermostats. It is based on the freezing and boiling points of water, set at 0°C and 100°C respectively. On the other hand, the Kelvin scale, which starts at absolute zero, is widely used in scientific contexts.

• The Celsius scale is relatable for everyday use, while Kelvin is essential in scientific experiments.
• Kelvin (K) does not use degree symbols, unlike Celsius.
• Both scales have the same incremental size, meaning a difference of 1°C is the same as a difference of 1 K.

Understanding how to convert between these systems is beneficial for comprehending scientific discussions and conducting experiments properly.

conversion formula

To convert a temperature given in degrees Celsius (°C) to Kelvin (K), you need to apply a simple mathematical formula. Knowing this conversion is crucial for scientific purposes, as many scientific equations use Kelvin.

The conversion formula is:
\[ T(K) = T(^{\circ}\text{C}) + 273.15 \]

This formula essentially shifts Celsius into the Kelvin scale by adding 273.15, which is a constant amount due to their relative scales.

• This shift accounts for the start of each scale: Absolute zero in Celsius is -273.15°C, which is 0 K.
• Both scales measure energy, but Kelvin provides a more complete picture starting from absolute zero.
• Remember: Simply add, no need for multiplication or division.

Knowing this formula makes temperature conversion straightforward, especially in scientific and engineering applications.

body temperature

The normal human body temperature is a vital marker of health. Usually, it is around 37°C but can vary slightly based on time of day and individual activity levels.

A body temperature of 39°C generally indicates a fever, possibly due to an infection or illness.

• Fever is a natural response, signaling that the body is fighting an infection.
• It's important to understand temperatures in both Celsius and Kelvin, especially in medical settings where specific equipment might use Kelvin.
• When you convert 39°C, a common fever temperature, to Kelvin, you use the conversion formula mentioned earlier.

Thus, converting and understanding body temperature in Kelvin can provide insights, particularly useful in hospitals or scientific research.