The gas mark scale is a temperature scale used on gas ovens and cookers in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and some Commonwealth of Nations countries. It is a simple and convenient way to indicate the desired cooking temperature, and it is often used in recipes.
Key Facts
- Gas mark scale: The gas mark scale ranges from 1/4 to 10, with each mark representing a specific temperature range.
- Temperature equivalents: Gas mark temperatures can be converted to Fahrenheit and Celsius for easier understanding. For example, gas mark 1 is approximately 275°F (135°C), and each increase in gas mark corresponds to an increase of 25°F (13.9°C).
- Descriptive terms: Gas mark temperatures are often accompanied by descriptive terms that indicate the cooking speed or heat level, such as slow, moderate, hot, etc..
- Variations in scales: Gas mark scales may vary in different countries. For example, France uses a scale called “Thermostat” (abbreviated “Th”) that is based on Fahrenheit, while Germany uses a scale called “Stufe” for gas cooking temperatures.
- Conversion tables: Conversion tables are available to help convert gas mark temperatures to Fahrenheit and Celsius, making it easier to follow recipes from different regions[3].
History
The gas mark scale was first introduced in the early 20th century by the British Gas Council. It was originally intended to provide a standardized way to set the temperature of gas ovens, which were becoming increasingly popular at the time. The scale was based on the temperature at which different types of gas burned, and it was designed to make it easy for cooks to achieve the desired cooking results.
Equivalents in Fahrenheit and Celsius
Gas mark temperatures can be converted to Fahrenheit and Celsius using the following formulas:
Fahrenheit
°F = (Gas Mark * 25) + 250
Celsius
°C = (Gas Mark * 14) + 121
For example, gas mark 4 is equivalent to 350°F (177°C).
Descriptive Terms
Gas mark temperatures are often accompanied by descriptive terms that indicate the cooking speed or heat level. These terms include:
- Very slow/very lowGas mark 1/4 to 1/2 (107-121°C)
- Slow/lowGas mark 1 to 2 (135-149°C)
- Moderately slow/warmGas mark 3 (163°C)
- Moderate/mediumGas mark 4 (177°C)
- Moderate/moderately hotGas mark 5 (191°C)
- Moderately hotGas mark 6 (204°C)
- HotGas mark 7 (218°C)
- Hot/very hotGas mark 8 (232°C)
- Very hotGas mark 9 (246°C)
- Extremely hotGas mark 10 (260°C)
Variations in Scales
The gas mark scale may vary in different countries. For example, France uses a scale called “Thermostat” (abbreviated “Th”) that is based on Fahrenheit, while Germany uses a scale called “Stufe” for gas cooking temperatures.
Conversion Tables
Conversion tables are available to help convert gas mark temperatures to Fahrenheit and Celsius, making it easier to follow recipes from different regions.
Conclusion
The gas mark scale is a simple and convenient way to indicate the desired cooking temperature. It is often used in recipes, and it can be converted to Fahrenheit and Celsius using the formulas provided above. By understanding the gas mark scale, you can ensure that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
References
FAQs
What is the gas mark scale?
The gas mark scale is a temperature scale used on gas ovens and cookers in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and some Commonwealth of Nations countries. It is a simple and convenient way to indicate the desired cooking temperature.
How do I convert gas mark temperatures to Fahrenheit or Celsius?
You can use the following formulas to convert gas mark temperatures to Fahrenheit and Celsius:
Fahrenheit:
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°F = (Gas Mark * 25) + 250
Celsius:
Copy
°C = (Gas Mark * 14) + 121
What are some descriptive terms used to describe gas mark temperatures?
Gas mark temperatures are often accompanied by descriptive terms that indicate the cooking speed or heat level. These terms include:
- Very slow/very low
- Slow/low
- Moderately slow/warm
- Moderate/medium
- Moderate/moderately hot
- Moderately hot
- Hot
- Hot/very hot
- Very hot
- Extremely hot
Do gas mark scales vary in different countries?
Yes, gas mark scales may vary in different countries. For example, France uses a scale called “Thermostat” (abbreviated “Th”) that is based on Fahrenheit, while Germany uses a scale called “Stufe” for gas cooking temperatures.
How can I find a conversion table for gas mark temperatures?
There are many conversion tables available online that can help you convert gas mark temperatures to Fahrenheit and Celsius.
What is the gas mark equivalent of 350°F (177°C)?
Gas mark 4
What is the gas mark equivalent of 200°C?
Gas mark 6
What is the gas mark equivalent of “moderate heat”?
Gas mark 4 or 5