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Introduction
Temperature is an essential aspect of our lives. From determining the appropriate clothing to wear to making decisions about food storage, temperature plays a crucial role. One of the most commonly used temperature scales is Fahrenheit. However, other parts of the world use Celsius, which can lead to confusion. In this article, we will explain how to convert 68 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius.
Understanding Temperature Scales
Before we dive into the conversion process, let’s review the two temperature scales we will be discussing.
The Fahrenheit scale was invented by a German physicist named Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit in 1724. This scale sets the boiling point of water at 212°F and the freezing point at 32°F.
The Celsius scale, on the other hand, was invented by Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius in 1742. It sets the boiling point of water at 100°C and the freezing point at 0°C. This scale is commonly used in many parts of the world.
Conversion Formula
Now that we understand the two temperature scales let’s review the formula for converting Fahrenheit to Celsius:
Celsius = (Fahrenheit – 32) x (5/9)
Using this formula, we can easily convert 68 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius by plugging in the value for Fahrenheit:
Celsius = (68 – 32) x (5/9)
The Calculation
Let’s break down the calculation:
68 – 32 = 36
5/9 = 0.5556
Celsius = 36 x 0.5556 = 20
Therefore, 68 degrees Fahrenheit is equivalent to 20 degrees Celsius.
Why Convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
There are several reasons why you may need to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius:
- You are traveling to a country that uses Celsius as its primary temperature scale.
- You are studying or working in a field that requires knowledge of both temperature scales.
- You are reading a recipe that uses Celsius instead of Fahrenheit.
Conclusion
Converting temperature scales can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the formula and following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily convert 68 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius. Remember, Fahrenheit is commonly used in the United States, while Celsius is used in many other parts of the world. By knowing how to convert between the two scales, you can communicate effectively and make informed decisions based on temperature.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when converting temperature scales:
- Always double-check your calculations to ensure accuracy.
- When working with fractions, round to the nearest whole number for simplicity.
- Use an online converter tool if you’re unsure about the conversion.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about converting temperature scales:
Q: Why is Fahrenheit still used in the United States?
A: Fahrenheit is still used in the United States because it is deeply ingrained in American culture and history. Additionally, many Americans find Fahrenheit easier to understand and use in everyday life.
Q: What is the formula for converting Celsius to Fahrenheit?
A: The formula for converting Celsius to Fahrenheit is:
Fahrenheit = (Celsius x 1.8) + 32
Q: What temperature scale is used in scientific research?
A: The Celsius scale is the primary temperature scale used in scientific research due to its simplicity and consistency.
Q: Is there a difference between Celsius and Centigrade?
A: No, Celsius and Centigrade are two names for the same temperature scale.
