Converting from Rankine to Kelvin
Rankine and Kelvin are both absolute temperature scales used in science. They both start at absolute zero meaning that 0°R = 0K. Rankine is based on the Fahrenheit scale popular in the United States whereas Kelvin is based on the Celsius scale and is the standard unit of temperature in the International System of Units (SI).
To convert from Rankine to Kelvin, you need to make three steps. First subtract 491.67 from the given temperature in Rankine, divide this value by 1.8 and then finally add 273.15.
For example, suppose you want to convert 600 Rankine. First we subtract 491.67 from 600 which gives us 108.33. Then divide the value by 1.8: 108.33 / 1.8 = 60.18. Finally add 273.15 to the value to get 333.33K.
Converting between Rankine and Kelvin can be a common task when referencing scientific papers between the United States and the rest of the world.
About Rankine
Rankine is temperature unit normally used in thermodynamics. It is named after the Scottish engineer and physicist William John Macquorn Rankine, who is know for his work in thermodynamics. The Rankine scale is based on the Fahrenheit scale with degree increments identical but starting at absolute zero.
With the zero point at absolute zero (-459.67°F) it is easy to convert between Rankine and Fahrenheit: simply subtract 459.67.
The Rankine scale is not normally used in everyday life as it is an engineering unit particularly thermodynamics in the United States.
About Kelvin
Kelvin is an absolute temperature measurement defined in the International System of Units (SI). It is named after the Scottish physicist William Thomson (Lord Kelvin) who studied the field of thermodynamics. The Kelvin scale is based on absolute zero; the point at which all molecular motion ceases.
Unlike most other temperature scales, Kelvin does not have degrees as it is not a relative scale. The Kelvin scale is often used in physics, chemistry, and cosmology.
One advantage of Kelvin is that it does not have negative values making some calculations easier. This is useful in science calculations involving gases as it relates to the kinetic energy of molecules.