What is 61 °F in degrees Celsius? Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To convert 61 degrees Fahrenheit to degrees Celsius, use the formula:
°C=(°F−32)×59\text{°C} = (\text{°F} – 32) \times \frac{5}{9}
Substituting the given value:
°C=(61−32)×59\text{°C} = (61 – 32) \times \frac{5}{9}
°C=29×59\text{°C} = 29 \times \frac{5}{9}
°C=16.1111\text{°C} = 16.1111
Rounding to two significant figures, the final answer is:
°C≈16 °C\text{°C} \approx 16 \text{ °C}
Explanation
Temperature conversions between Fahrenheit and Celsius follow a systematic approach based on linear relationships. The Fahrenheit scale originates from a system where the freezing point of water is set at 32 degrees and the boiling point at 212 degrees. In contrast, the Celsius scale defines freezing at 0 degrees and boiling at 100 degrees. Since these two scales are related by a proportional factor, the conversion formula accounts for this difference.
First, the subtraction of 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature accounts for the offset between the freezing points of both scales. This step ensures that the calculation aligns with the Celsius reference. The multiplication by five-ninths serves to adjust the magnitude of the change in temperature, as one degree Fahrenheit does not equal one degree Celsius.
Applying this formula to 61 degrees Fahrenheit provides an intermediate result of approximately 16.1111 degrees Celsius. The requirement to express the answer in two significant figures necessitates rounding. Since the leading digits are 16, the number is rounded accordingly, yielding a final value of 16 degrees Celsius.
Scientific accuracy in numerical representation ensures clarity in measurements. When performing conversions, adherence to significant figures reflects precision, allowing correct interpretations across different fields, including chemistry, physics, and meteorology. Expressing the final result with appropriate units maintains consistency, ensuring usability in scientific and practical applications.
