Convert Kelvin to Newton easily.
(1 K - 273.15) x 0.33 = -89.81 °N
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Ever wondered how to translate the frigid depths of outer space (measured in Kelvin) into Isaac Newton’s obscure temperature scale? While most people stick to Celsius or Fahrenheit, the Newton scale offers a quirky glimpse into early thermometry. Our converter bridges these two worlds instantly, whether you’re a history buff or a thermodynamics student.
Unit definitions
What is a Kelvin (K)?
- Description: The base SI unit for temperature, essential in scientific contexts.
- Symbol: K
- Common uses: Physics, chemistry, astronomy.
- Definition: 1/273.16 of the thermodynamic temperature of the triple point of water.
What is a Newton (°N)?
- Description: A historical scale by Isaac Newton, predating Celsius.
- Symbol: °N
- Common uses: 18th-century experiments, historical studies.
- Definition: Based on water’s freezing (0°N) and boiling (33°N) points, using linseed oil expansion.
Conversion formula
To convert Kelvin to Newton:
°N = (K - 273.15) × 0.33
For Newton to Kelvin:
K = (°N / 0.33) + 273.15
Example calculations
- Converting 300 K to Newton:
(300 - 273.15) = 26.85
26.85 × 0.33 ≈ 8.86°N - Converting 0°N to Kelvin:
0 / 0.33 = 0
0 + 273.15 = 273.15 K
Conversion tables
Kelvin to Newton
| Kelvin (K) | Newton (°N) |
|---|---|
| 273.15 | 0.00 |
| 280 | 2.26 |
| 290 | 5.55 |
| 300 | 8.86 |
| 310 | 12.16 |
| 320 | 15.46 |
| 330 | 18.76 |
| 340 | 22.06 |
| 350 | 25.36 |
| 373.15 | 33.00 |
Newton to Kelvin
| Newton (°N) | Kelvin (K) |
|---|---|
| 0 | 273.15 |
| 5 | 288.30 |
| 10 | 303.45 |
| 15 | 318.61 |
| 20 | 333.76 |
| 25 | 348.91 |
| 30 | 364.06 |
| 33 | 373.15 |
Historical background
The Kelvin scale, established by Lord Kelvin in 1848, revolutionized science by defining absolute zero. But did you know Newton dabbled in temperature a century earlier? In 1701, he proposed a scale using linseed oil’s expansion between water’s freezing and boiling points. His “degree of heat” divided this range into 33 parts, hence the 0.33 multiplier in conversions. While Kelvin’s work underpins modern physics, Newton’s scale remains a fascinating footnote. Fun fact: Newton also linked temperature to colors, suggesting red was the warmest and blue the coldest.
Interesting facts
- Linseed oil thermometers: Newton’s original instruments used linseed oil instead of mercury.
- 33 degrees of separation: The scale’s 0°N to 33°N range mirrors the 33 years of Newton’s most productive work.
- Absolute zero: 0 K (-273.15°C) is theoretically the coldest possible temperature.
- Colorful temperatures: Newton associated his scale with the color spectrum, though this idea didn’t catch on.
- Scientific legacy: Modern labs use Kelvin for precision, but Newton’s scale inspired future innovations.
FAQ
The Newton scale is primarily of historical interest. Conversions are useful for academic research or understanding older scientific texts.
Our tool uses the exact formula (K - 273.15) × 0.33, ensuring precision up to two decimal places.
Yes, though it’s far less known than his laws of motion. He proposed it in 1701, using linseed oil thermometers.
Absolutely. First convert °N to Kelvin using (°N/0.33)+273.15, then convert K to Celsius by subtracting 273.15.
No, it’s mainly a historical curiosity. Modern science prefers Kelvin, Celsius, and Fahrenheit for practical reasons.