## K vs. C in calculations

$\Delta U=q+w$

Kate Chow 4H
Posts: 61
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:28 am

### K vs. C in calculations

In a workshop today, we were using the formula $\Delta$u = 3/2 nR$\Delta$T. For R we used 8.314 J/K*mol but for $\Delta$T, we used degrees celsius. I'm wondering how the constant can be in K, but the $\Delta$T can be in celsius and how the units work out in this regard.

Thanks!

almaochoa2D
Posts: 67
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:23 am

### Re: K vs. C in calculations

You need to always have the same units, but delta t is a change in final and initial and 1 C change is equivalent to 1 K change thats why you were able to calculate delta T in C because it is the same as in K.

Lumbini Chandrasekera 1B
Posts: 63
Joined: Fri Sep 28, 2018 12:18 am

### Re: K vs. C in calculations

The units are essentially same in the essence that the difference between two Celsius values is the same as the difference between two Kelvin values. You can easily use Celsius if you are looking for delta T and get your answer with its units in Kelvin.