How do you convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?

To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, the correct formula is derived from the relationship between the two temperature scales. The conversion formula is C = (F - 32) × 5/9. In this equation, F represents the temperature in Fahrenheit and C represents the temperature in Celsius.

The reason the formula involves subtracting 32 is that the two scales have different reference points for freezing and boiling water. In the Fahrenheit scale, the freezing point of water is at 32 degrees, whereas in Celsius, it is at 0 degrees. Therefore, you first subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature to align it with the Celsius scale.

After adjusting for this difference with subtraction, you multiply the result by 5/9, which serves as the conversion factor that reflects how much larger degrees are in the Fahrenheit scale compared to the Celsius scale. This factor ensures that the resulting Celsius temperature is correctly scaled relative to the Fahrenheit input.

Understanding this conversion is important in aviation maintenance, as precise temperature readings are essential for understanding material properties, performance, and safety.