Convert kelvins to degrees Celsius
Converting kelvins to degrees Celsius is a common temperature task, whether you are checking a recipe, a spec sheet, a travel distance or a homework problem. Since 1 K equals -272.15 °C, the math is a single multiplication — and this page does it for you instantly, with the formula, a table of common values and answers to the questions people ask most.
Exact factor
How to convert kelvins to degrees Celsius
Apply the formula °C = K − 273.15. For example, 10 K equals -263.15 °C.
°C = K − 273.15
- Write down the value in kelvins you want to convert.
- Apply the formula: °C = K − 273.15.
- The result is your value in degrees Celsius. Verify it with the converter above.
Conversion table
Common values of kelvins and their equivalents in degrees Celsius:
| K | °C |
|---|---|
| 1 | -272.15 |
| 2 | -271.15 |
| 3 | -270.15 |
| 4 | -269.15 |
| 5 | -268.15 |
| 10 | -263.15 |
| 20 | -253.15 |
| 25 | -248.15 |
| 50 | -223.15 |
| 100 | -173.15 |
| 250 | -23.15 |
| 500 | 226.85 |
About these units
Kelvin (K). The kelvin is the SI base unit of temperature, starting at absolute zero (−273.15 °C), the point where thermal motion stops. It is used in physics, chemistry and engineering.
Celsius (°C). The Celsius scale sets water's freezing point at 0° and boiling point at 100° at standard pressure. It is the everyday temperature scale in most of the world and is aligned with Kelvin.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert kelvins to degrees Celsius?
Apply the formula °C = K − 273.15. For example, 10 K equals -263.15 °C. Or skip the math: type the value into the converter at the top of this page and the result updates instantly.
How many degrees Celsius are in 1 kelvin?
1 K = -272.15 °C. That is the fixed relationship used by this converter and by international standards.
How many kelvins are in 1 celsius?
1 °C = 274.15 K. If you are converting in the opposite direction, use our Celsius to Kelvin converter for the dedicated table and FAQ.
Is the kelvins to degrees Celsius conversion exact?
Yes. The formulas between Celsius, Fahrenheit and Kelvin are exact by definition, so results are as precise as you need. Only the displayed digits are rounded for readability.
What is kelvin used for?
The kelvin is the SI base unit of temperature, starting at absolute zero (−273.15 °C), the point where thermal motion stops. It is used in physics, chemistry and engineering.