High School

At what temperature do the following pairs of scales read the same, if ever?

(a) Fahrenheit and Celsius

(b) Fahrenheit and Kelvin

(c) Celsius and Kelvin

Answer :

Final answer:

The Fahrenheit and Celsius scales intersect at -40 degrees, where they read the same numerical value. The Fahrenheit and Kelvin scales, as well as the Celsius and Kelvin scales, never read the same due to different starting points and degree sizes.

Explanation:

Understanding the point at which different temperature scales read the same value is a fascinating exercise in temperature conversions. Let's examine each pair of scales asked about in the question:

  • (a) Fahrenheit and Celsius: The Fahrenheit and Celsius scales intersect at a temperature of -40 degrees. This is the unique point where -40°F equals -40°C.
  • (b) Fahrenheit and Kelvin: These scales never read the same because they have different starting points (absolute zero) and degree sizes. The Kelvin scale begins at absolute zero, at which point Fahrenheit is at -459.67°F.
  • (c) Celsius and Kelvin: These two scales will also never read the same number because the Kelvin scale starts at absolute zero, equivalent to -273.15°C. However, the degree increments are the same size in both scales.

In summary, only the Fahrenheit and Celsius scales have a temperature at which they read the same, and it is at -40 degrees.

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