Converting Fahrenheit to Celsius is a common temperature unit conversion. This example problem shows how to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius.
Fahrenheit to Celsius Example
The average body temperature of a house cat is 101.5 °F. What is this temperature in Celsius?
Solution:
The formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius is:
°C = 5⁄9(°F – 32)
where °F and °C are the temperatures in Fahrenheit and Celsius respectively.
Plug 101.5 °F into the formula
°C = 5⁄9(101.5 – 32)
°C = 5⁄9(69.5)
°C = 38.6 °C
There is another way to write the Fahrenheit to Celsius formula that avoids using fractions:
°C = (°F – 32) ÷ 1.8
°C = (101.5 – 32) ÷ 1.8
°C = (69.5 – 32) ÷ 1.8
°C = 38.6 °C
As you can see, you’ll get the same answer using either formula.
Answer:
The average body temperature of a cat in Celsius is 38.6 °C.
More Temperature Conversion Examples
For more help, try these other temperature conversion example problems:
- Convert Celsius to Fahrenheit Example Problem
- When Does Fahrenheit Equal Celsius?
- Convert Celsius to Kelvin Example Problem
- Convert Kelvin to Celsius Example Problem