To convert Celsius to Kelvin, what constant is added?

When converting a temperature from Celsius to Kelvin, the specific constant that is added is 273. This is because the Kelvin scale is an absolute temperature scale that starts at absolute zero, which corresponds to 0 Kelvin. In the Celsius scale, absolute zero is at -273.15 degrees Celsius.

To transition from Celsius to Kelvin, you start with the Celsius temperature and add 273.15. However, for most practical purposes, especially in a multiple-choice exam like the HESI, rounding this value to 273 is commonly accepted. Thus, the formula for conversion is:

( K = C + 273 )

where K represents the temperature in Kelvin and C represents the temperature in Celsius. By adding this constant, you effectively shift the temperature scale to the Kelvin system, which is essential in scientific calculations where absolute temperature values are required.