What unit of temperature is currently used in the United States?

In the USA, the temperature unit used is the degree Fahrenheit (°F). This unit, invented by German physicist Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit in 1724, is used mainly in the USA, as well as in a few other countries and territories.

In 1724, Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit presented his temperature scale, which now bears his name. He defined zero degrees Fahrenheit as the temperature of a mixture of ice, water and salt, and 96 degrees Fahrenheit as the temperature of his own body (a value slightly different from the average body temperature accepted today).

The Fahrenheit scale sets the freezing point of water at 32°F and the boiling point of water at 212°F, under normal conditions of atmospheric pressure. There is therefore a difference of 180 degrees between these two points, compared with 100 degrees for the Celsius scale.

In the United States, weather forecasts are communicated in degrees Fahrenheit. This includes weather reports broadcast on television, radio and mobile applications.

Ambient temperatures in homes, schools and public buildings are set and measured in Fahrenheit. Thermostats, air conditioners and heating systems use this unit.

Although science and some industries primarily use the metric system, including degrees Celsius, for reasons of accuracy and international standardization, everyday and non-scientific contexts in the U.S. continue to favor the Fahrenheit scale.

To convert a temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius, the following formula can be used: °C = (°F – 32) / 1.8

Conversely, to convert a temperature from Celsius to Fahrenheit, the formula is as follows: °F =( °C x 1.8 ) + 32

Most countries in the world use the Celsius (°C) scale, which is based on the metric system. This is the case in Europe and most Asian countries.

The Fahrenheit scale is often considered more accurate for daily ambient temperatures, as it offers a wider range of distinct values for common temperatures. However, the Celsius scale is more closely aligned with the International System of Units (SI), facilitating conversion and scientific standardization.

The temperature unit currently used in the USA is the degree Fahrenheit (°F). This scale, although less widespread around the world, is deeply rooted in American culture and daily practices. From the weather to the home, degrees Fahrenheit remain the standard, illustrating one of the many peculiarities of the measurement system used in the United States.