The conversion of temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius is a fundamental concept in physics and engineering. To convert 118 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius, we use the formula: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9. Applying this formula, we get: °C = (118 - 32) × 5/9 = 86 × 5/9 = 47.78 °C. Therefore, 118 degrees Fahrenheit is equivalent to 47.78 degrees Celsius.
Temperature Conversion Fundamentals
Understanding the relationship between Fahrenheit and Celsius is crucial in various scientific and industrial applications. The Fahrenheit scale was developed by Gabriel Fahrenheit in 1724, while the Celsius scale was introduced by Anders Celsius in 1742. The Celsius scale is based on the freezing and boiling points of water, which are defined as 0 °C and 100 °C, respectively. In contrast, the Fahrenheit scale sets the freezing point of water at 32 °F and the boiling point at 212 °F.
Conversion Formula and Calculation
The conversion formula from Fahrenheit to Celsius is: °C = (°F - 32) × 5⁄9. This formula can be applied to any temperature value in Fahrenheit to obtain the equivalent temperature in Celsius. For example, to convert 118 °F to Celsius, we subtract 32 from 118, resulting in 86, and then multiply by 5⁄9, giving us 47.78 °C. This calculation can be performed using a calculator or by hand, depending on the level of precision required.
| Temperature (°F) | Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|
| 32 | 0 |
| 212 | 100 |
| 118 | 47.78 |
Applications and Implications
The conversion between Fahrenheit and Celsius has numerous applications in various fields, including engineering, physics, and chemistry. For instance, in chemical reactions, temperature plays a critical role in determining the reaction rate and outcome. Understanding the relationship between the two scales enables scientists and engineers to design and optimize experiments, as well as predict and control the behavior of materials and systems.
Industrial and Scientific Applications
In industrial settings, temperature control is crucial in manufacturing processes, such as metalworking, plastics production, and food processing. The ability to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius ensures that temperature-sensitive operations are performed within the required specifications, resulting in higher quality products and improved efficiency. Additionally, in scientific research, accurate temperature measurements and conversions are essential for collecting reliable data and drawing meaningful conclusions.
- Engineering: design and optimization of systems, temperature control, and material selection
- Physics: thermodynamics, heat transfer, and energy conversion
- Chemistry: reaction kinetics, catalyst design, and process optimization
What is the formula for converting Fahrenheit to Celsius?
+The formula for converting Fahrenheit to Celsius is: °C = (°F - 32) × 5⁄9.
Why is temperature conversion important in industrial and scientific applications?
+Temperature conversion is crucial in industrial and scientific applications because it ensures accurate temperature measurements and control, resulting in higher quality products, improved efficiency, and reliable data collection.
