K
Unicode
U+212ALaTeX
\mathrm{K}HTML entity
HTML decimal
KMathML
<mo>K</mo>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ℃ — Degree Celsius
- ℉ — Degree Fahrenheit
Use K in the right format
Meaning and usage
Represents the kelvin unit of thermodynamic temperature.
Modern text normally uses the ordinary Latin capital K with unit formatting rather than the compatibility character.
Pronunciation: kelvin sign
Formula examples
T=300\,\mathrm{K}How to type Kelvin Sign
- Windows
- Use Character Map and search for Kelvin Sign, or paste the Unicode character (U+212A).
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search for Kelvin Sign.
- Microsoft Word
- In an equation, type \mathrm{K} and press Space when Word supports the command; otherwise insert the Unicode character.
- iPhone and iPad
- Copy and paste K, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
- Android
- Copy and paste K, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
- Google Docs
- For plain text, paste K or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify \mathrm{K}.
- Excel
- Paste K into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Keep K attached to the correct quantity and follow the destination's unit, currency, spacing, and decimal conventions.
- For plain text, copy K as U+212A; for structured equations, use \mathrm{K} in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Kelvin Sign.
When to use K
- Use K in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+212A.
- Use \mathrm{K} in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Kelvin Sign is used in currency measurement, physics with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ℃ — Degree Celsius
- ℉ — Degree Fahrenheit
Font and compatibility notes
Font coverage varies; verify the code point and destination rendering before publication.
Continue the workflow
From Kelvin Sign to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse K in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\mathrm{K}for LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations. - Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.
Review and source notes
Quality tier: catalog
Last reviewed: 2026-07-23
Review method: Catalog review of character identity and notation mappings.
Verified against: Unicode Standard, Unicode mathematical notation guidance, and established LaTeX/MathML syntax.
Reference sources
- The Unicode StandardUnicode Consortium — Character identity, encoding, names, and conformance.
- Unicode Character Code ChartsUnicode Consortium — Code points and official character charts.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Kelvin Sign symbol mean?
Represents the kelvin unit of thermodynamic temperature.
What is the LaTeX command for K?
Use \mathrm{K} in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy K as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.