How to Convert Fahrenheit to Celsius
Use this formula:
°C = (°F − 32) × 5/9
Subtract 32 from Fahrenheit, then multiply by 5/9. The 32 is the °F value for freezing water (0 °C).
Worked example: 68 °F to Celsius
(68 − 32) × 5/9 = 36 × 5/9 = 20 °C. So 68 °F = 20 °C (room temperature).
More examples: 32 °F = 0 °C, 98.6 °F = 37 °C, 212 °F = 100 °C. To convert °C to °F, use Celsius to Fahrenheit.
When Is Fahrenheit to Celsius Conversion Used?
Converting from Fahrenheit to Celsius is useful when your temperature is in °F (US-style) and you need metric or international °C:
- US weather in Celsius: When traveling abroad or reading global forecasts, temps are often in °C. Converting from the US forecast in °F helps you compare.
- Oven and cooking: Recipes from outside the US may give oven temps in °C. If your oven is in °F, convert the recipe temp to °F—or convert your dial to °C using this formula.
- Body temperature: In the US, 98.6 °F is standard. Medical or international sources may use 37 °C. Converting helps when comparing or recording.
- Science and school: Many curricula use Celsius. Converting from Fahrenheit to Celsius helps when doing experiments or homework with US equipment.
About Fahrenheit
The Fahrenheit scale sets the freezing point of water at 32 °F and boiling at 212 °F. It is mainly used in the United States for weather, cooking, and body temperature. Named after Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit.
About Celsius
The Celsius scale sets the freezing point of water at 0 °C and boiling at 100 °C (at standard pressure). It is the standard temperature scale in most countries and in science. Named after Anders Celsius.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
- Use °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9. Example: (68 − 32) × 5/9 = 20 °C.
- What is 32 Fahrenheit in Celsius?
- 32 °F = 0 °C (freezing point of water).
- What is 98.6 Fahrenheit in Celsius?
- 98.6 °F = 37 °C (normal human body temperature).
- What is 212 Fahrenheit in Celsius?
- 212 °F = 100 °C (boiling point of water at sea level).
- Why do we subtract 32 in the formula?
- 32 °F is the freezing point of water. Subtracting it first aligns the scales; then 5/9 converts the degree size to Celsius.
- How do I convert Celsius back to Fahrenheit?
- Use °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. Or use our Celsius to Fahrenheit converter.