Convert to Celsius. Use the formula: C = 5/9 x (F – 32) 72°F
Convert to Celsius. Use the formula: C = 5/9 x (F – 32) 72°F
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To convert 72°F to Celsius using the formula:
C = (5/9) × (F – 32)
Step-by-step Conversion:
- Start with the temperature in Fahrenheit: F = 72
- Subtract 32:
72 – 32 = 40 - Multiply by 5/9:
(5/9) × 40 = 200 / 9 ≈ 22.22
Final Answer:
72°F = 22.22°C
Explanation
Temperature conversion between Fahrenheit and Celsius is essential in science, weather forecasts, travel, and daily life when dealing with different measurement systems. The Fahrenheit scale is mainly used in the United States and a few other countries, while most of the world uses the Celsius scale. Understanding how to convert between these two allows for better communication and comprehension of temperature-related information.
The conversion formula is based on how the two scales are defined. On the Fahrenheit scale, water freezes at 32°F and boils at 212°F. On the Celsius scale, water freezes at 0°C and boils at 100°C. The difference between the freezing and boiling points is 180 degrees in Fahrenheit and 100 degrees in Celsius. Therefore, each degree Celsius is equal to 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit, or 5/9 of a Fahrenheit degree, which is where the fraction in the formula comes from.
To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, the first step is to subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature. This shifts the freezing point of water to 0, aligning it with the Celsius scale. Then, multiplying the result by 5/9 scales it down to match Celsius degrees.
Applying this to 72°F, we subtract 32 to get 40. Then, multiplying 40 by 5/9 gives us approximately 22.22°C. This temperature is considered mild and comfortable. In real-world terms, it’s typical of room temperature or a pleasant spring day.
This conversion is not just a math exercise—it’s a practical skill. Whether you’re cooking with a recipe from another country, traveling internationally, or reading a scientific report, knowing how to convert temperatures helps bridge the gap between measurement systems.
