A temperature of F degrees Fahrenheit will be converted to C degrees Celsius. Given F = 9/5C + 32, which of the following expressions represents that temperature in degrees Celsius?

Rationale

5/9(F-32)

To convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, the formula C = 5/9(F - 32) correctly rearranges the original equation F = 9/5C + 32. This expression accurately reflects how to isolate C in terms of F.

A (5/9(F-32)) CORRECT

This expression correctly applies the conversion formula, rearranging F = 9/5C + 32 to isolate C. By subtracting 32 from F and multiplying by 5/9, it effectively transforms Fahrenheit to Celsius.

B (5/9F-32) YOUR ANSWER

This expression incorrectly suggests that Celsius is derived from Fahrenheit by simply multiplying F by 5/9 and then subtracting 32. It fails to account for the necessary adjustment of subtracting 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature before applying the conversion factor.

C (9/5(F-32)) YOUR ANSWER

This expression incorrectly applies the conversion factor in reverse. It suggests that Celsius can be calculated by taking Fahrenheit, subtracting 32, and multiplying by 9/5, which would actually convert Celsius back to Fahrenheit instead.

D (9/5(F+32)) YOUR ANSWER

This expression incorrectly suggests adding 32 to F before multiplying by 9/5, which does not correspond to any valid conversion formula. The addition of 32 is not needed in the conversion from Fahrenheit to Celsius.

E (9/5F+32) YOUR ANSWER

This expression suggests that Celsius can be obtained by multiplying F by 9/5 and then adding 32, which is incorrect. This represents the original Fahrenheit equation rather than the conversion to Celsius.

Conclusion

The correct expression for converting Fahrenheit to Celsius is 5/9(F - 32). Other options either misapply the conversion steps or represent incorrect transformations. Understanding this conversion formula is essential for accurately converting temperatures between these two scales.