What is the Difference Between Kelvin and Celsius?

The main difference between the Kelvin and Celsius temperature scales lies in their starting points and the fact that the Kelvin scale is thermodynamic, while the Celsius scale is not. Here are the key differences:

• Starting Point: The Celsius scale starts at 0°C, while the Kelvin scale starts at 273.15 K (absolute zero).
• Temperature Increments: Both scales have the same unit difference between each increment. A one-degree increase in the Celsius scale is equivalent to a one-unit increase in the Kelvin scale.
• Thermodynamic vs. Non-Thermodynamic: The Kelvin scale is thermodynamic, meaning it is based on the concept of absolute zero. The Celsius scale, on the other hand, is not thermodynamic and is based on the melting and boiling points of water under normal atmospheric conditions.
• Conversion: To convert Celsius to Kelvin, add 273.15 to the Celsius temperature. To convert Kelvin to Celsius, subtract 273.15 from the Kelvin temperature.

In summary, while both scales are used to measure temperature, the Kelvin scale is based on absolute zero and is thermodynamic, whereas the Celsius scale is not. The starting points of the two scales also differ, with the Kelvin scale starting at absolute zero and the Celsius scale starting at 0°C.

Comparative Table: Kelvin vs Celsius

The Kelvin and Celsius scales are both used to measure temperature, but they have different starting points and units of measurement. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two scales:

The Celsius scale starts at 0°C, which is the melting point of ice, while the Kelvin scale starts at -273.15 K, which is the absolute zero of temperature. The Kelvin scale is considered the scale for thermodynamic measurement, as it provides an errorless temperature measurement. To convert Celsius to Kelvin, you add 273.15 to the Celsius value.