Kelvin to Rankine Converter

Kelvin (K) is the base unit of thermodynamic temperature in the International System of Units (SI). It is an absolute temperature scale where 0 K represents absolute zero, the theoretical point where all molecular motion ceases.

The Kelvin scale was developed by British physicist William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, in 1848. It was based on the Celsius scale but shifted to start at absolute zero (-273.15°C). In 2019, the kelvin was redefined using the Boltzmann constant, making it more precise and fundamental.

Kelvin is the standard temperature unit in scientific research, particularly in physics, chemistry, and astronomy. It's used in thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, stellar astronomy, and any scientific work requiring absolute temperature measurements. It's essential for gas laws and thermal physics calculations.

Rankine (°R) is an absolute temperature scale that uses Fahrenheit-sized degrees but starts at absolute zero, similar to Kelvin. One degree Rankine equals one degree Fahrenheit, with 0°R being absolute zero.

The Rankine scale was developed by Scottish engineer and physicist William John Macquorn Rankine in 1859. It was created to provide an absolute temperature scale for engineering applications in countries using the Fahrenheit system, combining the familiar Fahrenheit degree size with the scientific concept of absolute zero.

Rankine is primarily used in engineering applications in the United States, particularly in thermodynamics, heat transfer calculations, and steam power systems. It's used in some specialized engineering software and textbooks, though Kelvin is increasingly preferred even in American scientific and engineering contexts.