🌡️ Kelvin to Rankine Converter
Instantly convert temperatures from Kelvin (K) to Rankine (°R). Both Kelvin and Rankine are absolute temperature scales used in science and engineering, with 0 K = 0 °R equal to absolute zero.
What Are Kelvin and Rankine Scales?
The Kelvin (K) and Rankine (°R) scales are both absolute temperature scales, meaning they start at absolute zero — the point at which all molecular motion stops. 0 K = 0 °R = −459.67 °F = −273.15 °C.
Key differences between the two scales:
- Degree Size: A degree Kelvin is the same size as a degree Celsius (1/100 of the difference between the freezing and boiling points of water), while a degree Rankine is the same size as a degree Fahrenheit (1/180 of that difference).
- 1 K = 1.8 °R — because the Kelvin degree is 1.8 times larger than the Rankine degree.
- Water Freezes: 273.15 K = 491.67 °R.
- Water Boils: 373.15 K = 671.67 °R.
How to Convert Kelvin to Rankine
The formula to convert Kelvin to Rankine is:
°R = K × 9/5
Alternatively: °R = K × 1.8
This formula works because the Kelvin degree is 9/5 (or 1.8) times the size of a Rankine degree. Since both scales start at absolute zero, a simple multiplication is all that's needed.
For example, to convert 373.15 K (the boiling point of water) to Rankine:
°R = 373.15 × 9/5
°R = 373.15 × 1.8
°R = 671.67 °R
Why Use This Converter?
- Instant results: Get accurate conversions in real-time.
- Step-by-step breakdown: See exactly how the conversion is calculated.
- Common reference table: Quickly check temperatures from 0 K to 500 K.
- Free & private: No registration, no data storage — all calculations are done in your browser.
❓ Kelvin to Rankine FAQ
What is the formula to convert Kelvin to Rankine?
The formula is °R = K × 9/5 or °R = K × 1.8.
What is the difference between Kelvin and Rankine?
Both are absolute temperature scales, but the Kelvin degree is the same size as a Celsius degree, while the Rankine degree is the same size as a Fahrenheit degree. Therefore, 1 K = 1.8 °R.
What is absolute zero in Kelvin and Rankine?
Absolute zero is 0 K and 0 °R, equivalent to −459.67 °F and −273.15 °C.
What is the freezing point of water in Kelvin and Rankine?
Water freezes at 273.15 K and 491.67 °R.
What is the boiling point of water in Kelvin and Rankine?
Water boils at 373.15 K and 671.67 °R.
Who invented the Kelvin and Rankine scales?
The Kelvin scale was invented by Lord Kelvin (William Thomson, 1824–1907). The Rankine scale was invented by William John Macquorn Rankine (1820–1872).
Are Kelvin and Rankine still used today?
Yes. Kelvin is the SI base unit for temperature and is widely used in science worldwide. Rankine is used in engineering and thermodynamics, particularly in the United States.
How accurate is this converter?
This converter provides highly accurate results using the standard conversion formula °R = K × 9/5. You can adjust the decimal precision to suit your needs.
Is this converter free?
Yes, this converter is completely free to use. No registration or personal data storage is required.