Example #2: How to Solve

Let's try another problem. How would you complete the following temperature conversion?

87.1°F = K

A. Convert directly from °F to K.
B. Convert °F to °C, then °C to K.
C. Convert °C to K, then K to °F.



Answer :

To solve the temperature conversion problem presented, which starts with a temperature in Fahrenheit (87.1°F) and aims to convert it to Kelvin (K), follow these detailed steps:

1. Convert Fahrenheit (°F) to Celsius (°C):

The formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius is:
[tex]\[ \text{Temp}_\text{Celsius} = (\text{Temp}_\text{Fahrenheit} - 32) \times \frac{5}{9} \][/tex]

Substituting 87.1°F into the formula:
[tex]\[ \text{Temp}_\text{Celsius} = (87.1 - 32) \times \frac{5}{9} \][/tex]

Calculate the value inside the parentheses first:
[tex]\[ 87.1 - 32 = 55.1 \][/tex]

Then multiply by [tex]\(\frac{5}{9}\)[/tex]:
[tex]\[ 55.1 \times \frac{5}{9} \approx 30.61111111111111 \][/tex]

Therefore, 87.1°F is approximately 30.61°C.

2. Convert Celsius (°C) to Kelvin (K):

The formula to convert Celsius to Kelvin is:
[tex]\[ \text{Temp}_\text{Kelvin} = \text{Temp}_\text{Celsius} + 273.15 \][/tex]

Using the previously calculated value of 30.61°C:
[tex]\[ \text{Temp}_\text{Kelvin} = 30.61 + 273.15 \][/tex]

Perform the addition:
[tex]\[ 30.61111111111111 + 273.15 \approx 303.76111111111106 \][/tex]

Therefore, 87.1°F is approximately 303.76K.

By following these two conversion steps, you can accurately convert a temperature from Fahrenheit to Kelvin.