What is the correct formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?

Prepare for the Pre-PAC Culinary Arts Exam with quizzes featuring multiple choice questions, flashcards, and helpful hints. Master the culinary arts concepts and increase your chances of success!

Multiple Choice

What is the correct formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?

Explanation:
To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, you first remove the offset of the freezing point, which is 32°F, and then adjust for the different size of each degree by multiplying by 5/9. This gives the formula C = (F − 32) × 5/9. The 32°F offset comes from the freezing point of water, and the 5/9 factor converts Fahrenheit degree steps into Celsius degree steps because one Celsius degree is 1.8 Fahrenheit degrees. For example, 68°F → (68 − 32) × 5/9 = 20°C. Using the wrong order or the wrong ratio (like multiplying by 9/5 or adding 32) would misalign the scales and give incorrect results.

To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, you first remove the offset of the freezing point, which is 32°F, and then adjust for the different size of each degree by multiplying by 5/9. This gives the formula C = (F − 32) × 5/9. The 32°F offset comes from the freezing point of water, and the 5/9 factor converts Fahrenheit degree steps into Celsius degree steps because one Celsius degree is 1.8 Fahrenheit degrees. For example, 68°F → (68 − 32) × 5/9 = 20°C. Using the wrong order or the wrong ratio (like multiplying by 9/5 or adding 32) would misalign the scales and give incorrect results.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy