Simple temperature conversion problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on converting a temperature difference of 64°F into Celsius and Kelvin. The initial calculations provided by the user were incorrect due to a misunderstanding of the conversion equations. The correct conversion for Celsius is achieved by applying the formula for temperature differences, yielding a result of 35.6°C. The Kelvin conversion follows as 308.75K, derived from the Celsius result.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of temperature conversion formulas: C=5(F-32)/9 and K=C+273.15
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
  • Familiarity with temperature scales: Fahrenheit, Celsius, and Kelvin
  • Knowledge of how to handle temperature differences versus absolute temperatures
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of temperature differences in thermodynamics
  • Learn about the implications of temperature conversions in scientific calculations
  • Explore common pitfalls in temperature conversion problems
  • Practice additional temperature conversion exercises using various temperature differences
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or chemistry courses, educators teaching temperature conversions, and anyone needing to understand temperature scale relationships.

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Homework Statement



I know this sounds too easy, but somehow webassign refuses my answers

The temperature difference between the inside and the outside of a home on a cold winter day is 64°F.

(a) Express this difference on the Celsius scale.
160/9

(b) Express this difference on the Kelvin scale.
2617/9


Homework Equations



C=5(F-32)/9
K=C+273.15

The Attempt at a Solution



Simply using the equations I got
C=160/9 or 17.7777778
K=2617/9 or 290.77777778

I inputted them three times in three forms, what is wrong with my answers?
 
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Your equations are for converting one temperature from one scale to another. What you are given is a temperature difference. Suppose it's T Deg F outside and T+64 inside, then try your equations on each and take the difference after conversion. What do you notice?
 
Thank you very much haruspex, I should have not subtracted 32 from the given temperature difference.
The right answer should be (64)(5/9)= 35.6
 

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