The metric system uses degrees Celsius to measure temperature. However, zero degrees Celsius does not equal absolute zero, the temperature at which there is no heat energy. Another temperature scale kelvins was created and its zero mark equals absolute zero. The kelvin is abbreviated K and does not use "degrees" with its name. Most thermometers do not measure in kelvins, so if you want to find the temperature in kelvins, you must convert from another temperature unit, like degrees Celsius.
Instructions
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1
Add 273.15 to 252.85 degrees Celsius to convert to 526 kelvins.
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2
Convert back from kelvins to degrees Celsius by subtracting 273.15. In this example, subtract 273.15 from 526 kelvins to get 252.85 degrees Celsius.
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Verify your answer with an online degrees Celsius-to-kelvins converter (see Resources). Select degree Celsius from the "From" menu and "kelvin" from the "To" menu, enter the degrees Celsius, and click "Convert."