What is the Rankine Temperature Scale?

The Rankine temperature scale is an absolute temperature scale named after the Scottish engineer and physicist, William John Macquorn Rankine. It is primarily used in the United States and is analogous to the Kelvin scale but employs the Fahrenheit degree instead of Celsius.

Key Features of the Rankine Scale

• Absolute Zero: Zero on the Rankine scale (0°R) represents absolute zero, the point where all molecular motion theoretically ceases.
• Relation to Fahrenheit: The Rankine scale is directly related to the Fahrenheit scale, with a simple conversion formula: °R = °F + 459.67.
• Thermodynamic Applications: It is widely used in thermodynamic calculations involving gases, heat engines, and refrigeration cycles.

Formula for Rankine Temperature Conversion

To convert temperatures between different scales, use the following formulas:

• From Fahrenheit to Rankine: °R = F + 459.67
• From Kelvin to Rankine: °R = K 1.8
• From Celsius to Rankine: °R = (°C × 1.8) + 491.67

Applications of the Rankine Scale

The Rankine scale is extensively used in:

1. Thermodynamics: Essential for understanding energy systems like steam engines and gas turbines.
2. Engineering: Frequently used in aerospace and mechanical engineering calculations.
3. Scientific Research: Supports high-precision experiments in heat and energy transfer.