The temperature scale that freezes water at 32 degrees and boils water at 212 degrees is known as the ___________ scale.

The temperature scale that freezes water at 32 degrees and boils water at 212 degrees is the Fahrenheit scale. This scale is commonly used in the United States for everyday temperature measurements, such as weather reporting and cooking.

In this scale, the interval between freezing and boiling points of water (from 32°F to 212°F) spans 180 degrees. This is a fundamental aspect of the Fahrenheit scale that differentiates it from other temperature scales, such as Celsius, where water freezes at 0 degrees and boils at 100 degrees.

The Kelvin and Rankine scales, while also related to temperature measurements, are based on different principles and have their own specific reference points. The Kelvin scale starts at absolute zero and is primarily used in scientific contexts, while the Rankine scale is an absolute temperature scale similar to Kelvin but expressed in degrees Fahrenheit. The Centigrade scale is another name for the Celsius scale and also has a different set of freezing and boiling points for water.

Understanding these nuances of the Fahrenheit scale helps clarify its position as a distinctly practical temperature measurement system, especially in contexts where it is traditionally applied.