How to convert fahrenheit to celsius
Subtract 32 from °F, then multiply by 5/9 to convert to °C (or multiply °C by 9/5, then add 32 to get °F).
Conversion formula
How to use this formula
- Start from the temperature you have in fahrenheit (the scale you are converting from).
- Apply the steps in the left column: temperature needs both a multiply and an offset—there is no single “conversion factor” like lengths or weights.
- The result is in celsius. Verify with the calculator above; the inverse formula is on this page if you need to go the other way.
Why this works
The offset (−32) aligns the two scales’ reference points; the factor 5/9 converts the different degree step sizes.
Example: for 68 fahrenheit: result ≈ 20.0 celsius (rounded as shown on this site).
Practical context
Fahrenheit to Celsius helps interpret US weather apps, medical thermometers, and legacy equipment dials when you need SI values.
It is also used when publishing data for international journals or EU compliance.
Reference points like 32 fahrenheit to celsius or 100 fahrenheit to celsius °F map directly to Celsius for science class, baking, and industrial safety sheets.
About fahrenheit and celsius
Fahrenheit is widely used in the US for weather and ovens. Celsius is standard in most other countries and in science. Convert with °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9.
Related converters
FAQ
- What is 68°F in celsius?
- 68 °F is about 20.0 °C. Rearrange to °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9 so both scales line up correctly.
- How do you convert between fahrenheit and celsius?
- Use the formulas on this page (°C = (°F − 32) × 5/9). Unlike lengths or weights, temperature needs both a multiply and an offset—the two scales don’t line up with a single ratio.
- Why is temperature conversion not a single multiply or divide?
- The offset (−32) aligns the two scales’ reference points; the factor 5/9 converts the different degree step sizes. That’s why you always see two steps in the formulas, not just “times a number.”
- Is 68° a typical everyday temperature?
- That’s extreme heat for outside air in most climates—more like ovens, industry, or rare heat waves than a normal day.