Celsius to Fahrenheit formula
Temperature scales start at different points, so the conversion has an offset as well as a ratio. To convert degrees Celsius to degrees Fahrenheit use: °F = °C × 9/5 + 32.
One degree Celsius equals 33.8 degrees Fahrenheit, and one degree Fahrenheit equals -17.2222222222 degrees Celsius. Celsius and Fahrenheit are linked by an exact affine rule, F = C x 9/5 + 32. Both scales are fixed so that water freezes at 0 C and 32 F and boils at 100 C and 212 F.
Worked example
Suppose you have 37 degrees Celsius and need the answer in degrees Fahrenheit.
- Write the formula: °F = °C × 9/5 + 32.
- Put in 37 °C and work it out: 98.6 °F.
- Round to suit the job. 98.6 °F is accurate enough for most everyday uses.
So 37 °C is 98.6 °F. To check, convert back: 98.6 °F is 37 °C.
Common degrees Celsius to degrees Fahrenheit values
| degrees Celsius (°C) | degrees Fahrenheit (°F) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 33.8 |
| 2 | 35.6 |
| 5 | 41 |
| 10 | 50 |
| 20 | 68 |
| 50 | 122 |
| 100 | 212 |
Reference points
Some familiar amounts in degrees Celsius, converted to degrees Fahrenheit:
- 0 °C, water freezes: 32 °F
- 20 °C, a comfortable room: 68 °F
- 37 °C, normal body temperature: 98.6 °F
- 100 °C, water boils at sea level: 212 °F
Where you will use it
Weather forecasts, ovens, fever readings and aquariums are in Celsius in most of the world and Fahrenheit in the US. Recipes and travel plans need quick conversions.
Quick mental math
Double the Celsius number and add 30. It is within 2 degrees F for everyday weather from 0 to 30 C. Rule of thumb: multiply by 2, then add 30. For 37 °C this gives 104 °F against the exact 98.6, an error of 5.5 percent.
Going the other way
Need the reverse? Use the Fahrenheit to Celsius converter. For comparison, 37 °F is 2.777777778 °C. To compare every temperature unit at once, open the temperature converter.
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