Chapter 10 Math 293
scale used in the United States to measure body temperature in healthcare
settings.
The freezing point of water on the Celsius scale is 0°, and the boiling
point is 100°. The Fahrenheit scale is based on a system that is less logical
and often more challenging to use. The freezing point of water in Fahren-
heit is 32°, and the boiling point is 212°.
Most healthcare facilities have conversion charts that can be used to
convert temperatures on one scale to the other and vice-versa. The conver-
sions can also easily be made by using specifi c formulas.
Converting Temperatures from Fahrenheit
to Celsius
The formula for converting Fahrenheit temperatures to Celsius is:
°C = 5/9 × (°F – 32).
Example: F = 98.6°
C =
5
× (98.6 – 32)
9
C =
5
× 66.6
9
C =
5 × 66.6
9
C =
333
9
C = 37°
Converting Temperatures from Celsius to
Fahrenheit
The formula for converting Celsius temperatures to Fahrenheit is:
°F = 9/5(C) + 32.
Example: C = 37°
F =
9
× (37) + 32
5
F =
9 × 37
+ 32
5
F =
333
+ 32
5
F = 66.6 + 32
F = 98.6°