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Degree Rankine Conversion Table
This comprehensive Rankine conversion table shows how various temperature units relate to degree Rankine. Use this reference for quick conversions between Rankine and other common temperature units.
| Conversion | To Unit | Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Rankine to Kelvin | Kelvin | K = °R × 5/9 |
| Rankine to Celsius | Celsius | °C = (°R - 491.67) × 5/9 |
| Rankine to Fahrenheit | Fahrenheit | °F = °R - 459.67 |
| Rankine to Réaumur | Réaumur | °Re = (°R - 491.67) × 4/9 |
This Rankine conversion reference table provides accurate conversion formulas for both metric (SI) units and imperial units. All values are based on internationally recognized standards for maximum precision in scientific and engineering applications.
What is Degree Rankine?
The degree Rankine (symbol: °R) is a unit of thermodynamic temperature based on an absolute scale. It is named after the Scottish engineer and physicist William John Macquorn Rankine (1820-1872). The Rankine scale is defined such that one degree Rankine is equal in size to one degree Fahrenheit, but with its zero point at absolute zero (-459.67°F or 0°R).
The Rankine scale is used primarily in some engineering fields in the United States, particularly in thermodynamics and aerospace engineering. Our Rankine conversion tool helps you easily convert between Rankine and other temperature units. For example, 0°R equals -273.15°C or -459.67°F.
What is the SI of Degree Rankine?
The degree Rankine is not an SI unit. The SI base unit for temperature is the kelvin (K). However, the Rankine scale is an absolute temperature scale where 0°R corresponds to absolute zero, similar to the kelvin scale. All other temperature units in engineering contexts can be converted to Rankine, making it useful for temperature conversions:
- Kelvin (K) = °R × 5/9
- Degree Celsius (°C) = (°R - 491.67) × 5/9
- Degree Fahrenheit (°F) = °R - 459.67
- Degree Réaumur (°Re) = (°R - 491.67) × 4/9
What is Degree Rankine Used For?
The degree Rankine is used in specific engineering applications, particularly in the United States. As an absolute temperature scale, it's essential for thermodynamic calculations. Our Rankine conversion tool can help with various applications:
Thermodynamics
Calculating thermal efficiency in heat engines and power cycles. For example, determining the Carnot efficiency of a heat engine operating between two Rankine temperatures.
Aerospace Engineering
Measuring temperatures in propulsion systems and aerodynamic heating. For example, calculating the stagnation temperature of air flowing at high speeds in terms of Rankine.
Chemical Engineering
Process design calculations involving absolute temperatures. For example, using Rankine in equations for gas laws and thermodynamic properties.
Academic Research
Teaching thermodynamic principles and scientific publications. For example, expressing absolute temperatures in Rankine when working with imperial units.
Etymology and History
The degree Rankine is named after William John Macquorn Rankine (1820–1872), a Scottish engineer and physicist who proposed the thermodynamic temperature scale in 1859. The Rankine scale was developed as an absolute temperature scale using Fahrenheit degrees, in contrast to the Kelvin scale which uses Celsius degrees.
The Rankine scale sets its zero point at absolute zero (-459.67°F), making it an absolute scale like Kelvin. While not part of the SI system, it remains relevant in some engineering disciplines, particularly in the United States where Fahrenheit is still commonly used. This historical development reflects the advancement of thermal science and the need for absolute temperature measurements in engineering applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use the Rankine scale?
The Rankine scale is used because it's an absolute temperature scale that uses Fahrenheit degrees. This makes it convenient for engineering calculations in the United States where Fahrenheit is the common temperature unit. Like Kelvin, Rankine starts at absolute zero, making it essential for thermodynamic calculations where absolute temperature is required.
How accurate is the Rankine definition?
The Rankine scale is based on the Fahrenheit scale with its zero point at absolute zero. Since it's a relative of the Fahrenheit scale, its accuracy depends on the precision of Fahrenheit measurements. However, as an absolute scale, it's perfectly suitable for thermodynamic calculations and scientific applications requiring absolute temperature values.
How do I convert Rankine to other units?
Use our Rankine conversion calculators above, or apply the appropriate conversion formula. For example, to convert Rankine to Kelvin, multiply by 5/9; to convert Rankine to Fahrenheit, subtract 459.67. For detailed instructions on converting Rankine to Celsius, visit our R to °C converter.
What are common uses for Rankine conversion?
Rankine conversion is essential in thermodynamics (heat engine efficiency), aerospace engineering (propulsion systems), chemical engineering (process design), and academic research (teaching thermodynamics). Whether calculating gas properties or analyzing thermal systems, our Rankine converter tool simplifies these engineering tasks.
How does Rankine conversion differ from other temperature units?
The Rankine scale is an absolute temperature scale like Kelvin, but uses Fahrenheit-sized degrees. This makes Rankine conversions unique compared to relative scales like Celsius or Fahrenheit. Zero Rankine equals absolute zero, making it essential for thermodynamic calculations, especially in engineering contexts where imperial units are preferred.
Can I convert very precise measurements in Rankine?
Yes, our Rankine converter handles precise measurements with high accuracy. Whether working with small temperature differences or extreme temperatures, our smart rounding feature ensures readable results while maintaining precision. This is particularly important for scientific and engineering applications where accuracy is crucial.
Is your Rankine conversion tool free to use?
Yes, our Rankine conversion calculator is completely free with no registration required. Simply enter your value, select your target unit, and get instant, accurate results. We believe precise temperature conversion should be accessible to everyone, from students learning thermodynamics to professionals working on complex engineering projects.