Temperature
Celsius to Fahrenheit, made clear
The formula has a multiply and an add — here’s why, plus the reference points and oven temperatures you’ll use most.
Quick answer
°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. To reverse it: °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9.
Why two steps?
The scales differ in two ways. They start in different places — water freezes at 0°C but 32°F — which is the +32. And each Celsius degree is larger: there are 100 Celsius degrees between freezing and boiling, but 180 Fahrenheit degrees, a ratio of 9/5. Adjust for size, then shift the start point.
Worked examples
- 25°C → °F: 25 × 9/5 = 45, + 32 = 77°F (a warm day).
- 350°F → °C: (350 − 32) × 5/9 = 176.7°C (a common oven setting).
- Quick estimate of 22°C: double to 44, add 30 = ~74°F (actual 71.6°F).
| Celsius | Fahrenheit | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| −40 | −40 | Scales meet |
| 0 | 32 | Water freezes |
| 20 | 68 | Room temperature |
| 37 | 98.6 | Body temperature |
| 100 | 212 | Water boils (sea level) |
| 180 | 356 | Moderate oven |
| 200 | 392 | Hot oven |
Where it comes up
Weather and cooking are the big ones: the US reports temperatures and oven settings in Fahrenheit, while most of the world — and most science — uses Celsius. Knowing a few anchor points (0, 37, 100) lets you sanity-check any conversion at a glance.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the quick formula for Celsius to Fahrenheit?
Multiply by 9, divide by 5, then add 32: °F = °C × 9/5 + 32. A rough shortcut is “double it and add 30”.
At what temperature do the two scales meet?
At −40°: −40°C equals −40°F. It’s the only point where the numbers are identical.
What is 98.6°F in Celsius?
About 37°C, the usual figure for normal human body temperature.
What oven temperature is 180°C?
356°F — most recipes round it to 350°F, a very common baking temperature.