To convert 87 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) to Celsius (°C), we use the formula: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9. This formula is derived from the definition of the Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature scales, where 32 °F is the freezing point of water and 212 °F is the boiling point, corresponding to 0 °C and 100 °C, respectively.
Conversion Process
Plugging the given value into the formula, we get: °C = (87 - 32) × 5⁄9. First, subtract 32 from 87, which yields 55. Then, multiply 55 by 5, resulting in 275. Finally, divide 275 by 9 to get the temperature in Celsius.
Performing the Calculation
The calculation is as follows: 55 × 5 = 275, and then 275 ÷ 9 = 30.5556. Rounding this to a more conventional temperature precision, we get approximately 30.56 °C. This conversion demonstrates how to transform a temperature reading from the Fahrenheit scale to the Celsius scale using a straightforward mathematical formula.
| Temperature Scale | Value |
|---|---|
| Fahrenheit (°F) | 87 |
| Celsius (°C) | 30.56 |
Key Points
- The formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius is: °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9.
- For 87 °F, the conversion yields approximately 30.56 °C.
- Temperature conversion is crucial for consistency in scientific and international communication.
- The Celsius scale is based on the freezing and boiling points of water at standard atmospheric pressure.
- Understanding temperature scales and their conversions is fundamental in physics, chemistry, and engineering disciplines.
The Fahrenheit and Celsius scales are two of the most commonly used temperature scales, with the latter being part of the metric system and used in almost all scientific applications. The conversion between these scales is not only a mathematical exercise but also a practical necessity in various fields, from meteorology to materials science. By applying the conversion formula, individuals can easily switch between these scales, ensuring that temperature readings are accurately interpreted and communicated across different contexts.
Practical Applications
In everyday life, understanding the Fahrenheit to Celsius conversion can be beneficial for travelers, especially when moving between countries that use different temperature scales. For instance, knowing that 87 °F is equivalent to approximately 30.56 °C can help individuals dress appropriately for the weather in a foreign country. Moreover, in scientific research and international collaborations, using a consistent temperature scale, usually Celsius, is crucial for the accuracy and comparability of data.
Historical Context
The development of temperature scales dates back to the early 18th century, with Gabriel Fahrenheit proposing his scale in 1724 and Anders Celsius introducing the Celsius scale in 1742. Initially, the Celsius scale was reversed, with 100 degrees being the freezing point and 0 degrees the boiling point of water, but it was later inverted to its current form. The evolution of these scales reflects the ongoing effort to standardize and improve measurement systems, facilitating more precise and universal communication of physical quantities.
In conclusion, the conversion of 87 °F to Celsius, yielding approximately 30.56 °C, is a straightforward process using the formula °C = (°F - 32) × 5/9. This conversion highlights the importance of understanding and being able to switch between different units of measurement, especially in a globalized world where communication and data sharing across borders are increasingly common. By grasping these conversions, individuals can enhance their understanding of the physical world and participate more effectively in international scientific and cultural exchanges.
What is the formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?
+The formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius is: °C = (°F - 32) × 5⁄9.
Why is temperature conversion important?
+Temperature conversion is crucial for ensuring consistency and accuracy in scientific research, international communication, and practical applications across different regions and fields.
What are the primary temperature scales used globally?
+The two primary temperature scales are Fahrenheit (°F) and Celsius (°C), with the Celsius scale being more widely used, especially in scientific and international contexts.