degree Rankine [R] to degree Kelvin [K] Converter

Definition: Degree Rankine (°R or °Ra) is a thermodynamic (absolute) temperature scale, named after the Scottish physicist and engineer William John Macquorn Rankine, who proposed it in 1859. It uses the Fahrenheit degree as its interval and starts from absolute zero.

History/origin: William John Macquorn Rankine developed the Rankine scale as an absolute temperature scale to complement the Fahrenheit scale, similar to how the Kelvin scale relates to the Celsius scale.

Current use: The Rankine scale is primarily used in engineering contexts, particularly in thermodynamics and combustion calculations, predominantly in the United States. It's not as widely used as Kelvin or Celsius.

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

History/origin: The Kelvin scale was proposed by William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, in 1848. It is based on the Celsius scale, but with its zero point at absolute zero (-273.15 °C).

Current use: Degree Kelvin is primarily used in scientific and engineering applications where absolute temperature is required, such as thermodynamics, astrophysics, and low-temperature physics.