A thermometer tells you that you have a fever of 39.4°C
What is this in Fahrenheit
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
A fever of 39.4°C is equal to 102.9°F.
Explanation
To convert a temperature from Celsius to Fahrenheit, we use the following formula:°F=(°C×95)+32°F = (°C × \frac{9}{5}) + 32°F=(°C×59)+32
Let’s apply this to 39.4°C:°F=(39.4×95)+32=(39.4×1.8)+32=70.92+32=102.92°F°F = (39.4 × \frac{9}{5}) + 32 = (39.4 × 1.8) + 32 = 70.92 + 32 = 102.92°F°F=(39.4×59)+32=(39.4×1.8)+32=70.92+32=102.92°F
Rounded to one decimal place, this is 102.9°F.
This conversion is important for understanding body temperature in contexts where Fahrenheit is the standard (such as in the United States). Normal human body temperature is about 37°C or 98.6°F. A temperature of 39.4°C (102.9°F) indicates a moderate to high fever, which suggests that your body is responding to an infection or illness.
Fevers are a natural defense mechanism: when your body detects invaders such as bacteria or viruses, it raises its internal temperature to make the environment less hospitable to these pathogens and to stimulate the immune system. However, a sustained fever above 39°C (102.2°F) can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, dangerous, especially in children, the elderly, or individuals with underlying health conditions.
A fever of 102.9°F can cause symptoms such as chills, sweating, dehydration, muscle aches, and fatigue. If the fever persists for more than a couple of days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, or confusion, it is important to seek medical attention.
In conclusion, a thermometer reading of 39.4°C translates to 102.9°F. This is a sign of a significant fever, and while it’s often the body’s way of fighting illness, it should be monitored closely to ensure it doesn’t escalate or mask a more serious condition.
