Temperature conversion

Section 1Why convert temperatures

Different countries use different temperature scales. Jamaica uses Celsius (°C), the US uses Fahrenheit (°F), and scientists often use Kelvin (K). Being able to convert between them is essential for reading any weather report or science material from another country.

Section 2Celsius to Fahrenheit

Formula: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. Do the multiplication FIRST, then the addition. Example: 25°C → (25 × 9/5) + 32 = 45 + 32 = 77°F. Always check your answer makes sense — Fahrenheit numbers are usually bigger than Celsius numbers above freezing.

Section 3Fahrenheit to Celsius

Formula: °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9. Do the SUBTRACTION first, then multiply. Example: 86°F → (86 − 32) × 5/9 = 54 × 5/9 = 30°C. The order matters — subtract before you multiply.

Section 4Reference points to memorise

Water freezes: 0°C = 32°F. Water boils: 100°C = 212°F. Normal body temperature: 37°C ≈ 98.6°F. Room temperature: about 20°C ≈ 68°F. If your answer is far from these reference points for the same context, you've probably made an arithmetic mistake.