Celsius to Fahrenheit Converter
Convert temperatures from Celsius (°C) to Fahrenheit (°F) instantly. Fast, accurate, and mobile-friendly.
0°C =
32°F
Freezing
20°C =
68°F
Room Temp
37°C =
98.6°F
Body Temp
100°C =
212°F
Boiling
Water freezes at 0°C
Water freezes at 32°F
Water freezes at 273.15 K (absolute zero = 0 K)
📸 Upload or take a photo of a temperature reading to automatically extract the number
Conversion Formulas
Keyboard Shortcuts:
- Esc Clear all fields
- Ctrl+K Swap values
Common Temperature Reference Points
Water Freezes
0°C / 32°F / 273.15 K
Room Temperature
20°C / 68°F / 293.15 K
Body Temperature
37°C / 98.6°F / 310.15 K
Water Boils
100°C / 212°F / 373.15 K
Conversion History
No conversion history yet
Your recent conversions will appear here
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This tool provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results should not be relied upon for important decisions. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
Celsius to Fahrenheit Formula
°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32
How to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit:
- Multiply the Celsius temperature by 9/5 (or 1.8)
- Add 32 to the result
- The result is the temperature in Fahrenheit
Example:
Convert 20°C to Fahrenheit:
°F = (20 × 9/5) + 32 = (20 × 1.8) + 32 = 36 + 32 = 68°F
Celsius to Fahrenheit Conversion Table
| Celsius (°C) | Fahrenheit (°F) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| -40°C | -40°F | Extremely cold (same value) |
| -20°C | -4°F | Very cold winter day |
| 0°C | 32°F | Water freezes |
| 10°C | 50°F | Cool day |
| 20°C | 68°F | Room temperature |
| 30°C | 86°F | Hot summer day |
| 37°C | 98.6°F | Normal body temperature |
| 40°C | 104°F | Very hot day |
| 50°C | 122°F | Extremely hot |
| 100°C | 212°F | Water boils |
Visual Temperature Scale Comparison
Side-by-side comparison showing key reference points on both scales
Celsius (°C)
Fahrenheit (°F)
Understanding Celsius and Fahrenheit
Celsius Scale
The Celsius scale (also called centigrade) is the most widely used temperature scale worldwide. It's the standard in most countries and in scientific applications.
The scale is based on the freezing point (0°C) and boiling point (100°C) of water at standard atmospheric pressure, making it intuitive for everyday use.
Key reference points:
- Absolute zero: -273.15°C
- Water freezes: 0°C
- Room temperature: ~20-22°C
- Body temperature: 37°C
- Water boils: 100°C
Fahrenheit Scale
The Fahrenheit scale is primarily used in the United States, its territories, and a few other countries. It provides a more granular scale for everyday temperature ranges.
Developed by Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit in 1724, the scale was originally based on three fixed points, but is now defined by the freezing and boiling points of water.
Key reference points:
- Absolute zero: -459.67°F
- Water freezes: 32°F
- Room temperature: ~68-72°F
- Body temperature: 98.6°F
- Water boils: 212°F
Did You Know?
The Magical -40°
-40° is the only temperature where Celsius and Fahrenheit meet! At this point, -40°C = -40°F. It's the crossover point on both temperature scales.
Fahrenheit's Origin
Daniel Fahrenheit originally set 0°F as the coldest temperature he could create with ice and salt, and 96°F as human body temperature (later adjusted to 98.6°F).
Global Usage
Only 5 countries still officially use Fahrenheit: the United States, Bahamas, Belize, Cayman Islands, and Palau. The rest of the world uses Celsius!
Scientific Standard
Even in the US, scientists use Celsius (and Kelvin) for research. The Celsius scale is more intuitive for scientific work since it's based on water's properties.
Real-World Usage Examples
Understanding temperature conversions becomes more meaningful when you see how they apply in everyday situations:
Weather Forecasts
When traveling between countries, you'll often need to convert weather forecasts. For example, if you're visiting Rome and the forecast shows 28°C, that's 82°F - a pleasant summer day perfect for sightseeing!
Cooking & Baking
International recipes often use different temperature scales. A European recipe calling for 180°C oven temperature converts to 356°F (commonly rounded to 350°F in US ovens).
Medical Thermometers
Digital thermometers may display in either scale. Normal body temperature is 37°C, which equals 98.6°F. A fever of 39°C translates to 102.2°F - time to see a doctor!
Swimming Pool Temperature
Pool temperatures are often listed in Celsius in many countries. A comfortable swimming pool at 26°C is 79°F - warm enough to swim without feeling cold.
Car Temperature Gauges
European and Japanese cars often display engine temperature in Celsius. A normal operating temperature of 90°C equals 194°F - perfectly normal for most engines.
Freezer & Refrigerator Settings
Appliances sold internationally may show temperatures in Celsius. Your freezer should be at -18°C, which is 0°F. The fridge should be at 4°C or 39°F for optimal food preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
Use the formula: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. Multiply the Celsius temperature by 1.8 (or 9/5), then add 32. For example, 25°C × 1.8 + 32 = 77°F.
What is the difference between Celsius and Fahrenheit?
Celsius is a metric temperature scale where water freezes at 0° and boils at 100°. Fahrenheit is an imperial scale where water freezes at 32° and boils at 212°. Celsius is used globally except in the US, which primarily uses Fahrenheit.
Why does the US use Fahrenheit instead of Celsius?
The US adopted Fahrenheit before the metric system became standardized globally. While many countries transitioned to Celsius in the 20th century, the US retained Fahrenheit for historical and cultural reasons, despite using metric units in scientific contexts.
What temperature is the same in Celsius and Fahrenheit?
-40 degrees is the only temperature where Celsius and Fahrenheit scales intersect. At this temperature, -40°C = -40°F.
Is 0°C equal to 32°F?
Yes! 0°C (the freezing point of water) equals exactly 32°F. This is one of the key reference points for converting between the two scales.
What is a quick way to estimate Celsius to Fahrenheit conversion?
A quick mental approximation: double the Celsius temperature and add 30. For example, 20°C: (20 × 2) + 30 = 70°F (actual: 68°F). This method is accurate within a few degrees for most everyday temperatures.
Need More Tools?
For calculations and conversions beyond temperature, try PresentForge - Build stunning presentations with AI assistance.