What is the formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?

The formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius is given by the equation C = (F - 32) * 5/9. This formula arises from the relationship between the two temperature scales.

To understand why this formula is correct, we first take into account that the Celsius and Fahrenheit scales have different starting points and increments. Water freezes at 0 degrees Celsius but at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and it boils at 100 degrees Celsius, corresponding to 212 degrees Fahrenheit.

The conversion work is predicated on the need to first adjust for the offset between the two scales (subtracting 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature), since 32°F is the point where water freezes. After adjusting for this offset, we multiply by 5/9 to account for the difference in scale increments. Given that one degree Celsius is equivalent to 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit, multiplying by the fraction 5/9 effectively converts the temperature into the appropriate Celsius scale proportion.

The other options do not accurately reflect this relationship. For instance, the incorrect answer suggesting C = (9/5) * F + 32 is actually the formula for converting Celsius to Fahrenheit, which illustrates a reversal of the intended conversion direction. Understanding this foundational relationship is key to accurately converting temperatures