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Kilometers per Hour to Meters per Second (km/h to m/s) Converter

Convert km/h to m/s and m/s to km/h instantly.
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km/h to m/s – Instant Calculator

Kilometers per Hour (km/h)

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Meters per Second (m/s)

Common Conversion Examples

18 km/h = 5 m/s

18 km/h = 5 m/s

36 km/h = 10 m/s

36 km/h = 10 m/s

72 km/h = 20 m/s

72 km/h = 20 m/s

108 km/h = 30 m/s

108 km/h = 30 m/s

km/h to m/s: Definition, History, Uses, and Examples

Definition

Kilometers per hour (km/h) is a metric unit for speed commonly used in everyday life, while meters per second (m/s) is the SI unit for speed used in physics and engineering. The km/h to m/s formula is: m/s = km/h ÷ 3.6. This conversion is essential for physics calculations, sports analytics, and engineering applications.

Origin or History

The meter per second became the standard SI unit for speed in 1960, while kilometers per hour remains popular for everyday use due to its practical scale for human activities. The factor 3.6 comes from the relationship: 1 km = 1000 m and 1 hour = 3600 seconds, so 1 km/h = 1000/3600 = 1/3.6 m/s.

Current Use

  • Physics & Engineering: scientific calculations, velocity measurements, and research applications.
  • Sports & Athletics: running speeds, cycling velocities, and performance analysis.
  • Education: physics classes, engineering courses, and scientific demonstrations.

Examples

km/hm/sExample Use
185Walking speed
3610Running speed
7220Cycling speed
10830Highway speed

Also searched

  • km/h to m/s physics calculator
  • convert running speed km/h to m/s
  • velocity conversion km/h m/s
  • speed of light km/h to m/s

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I convert kilometers per hour to meters per second, step by step?
To convert km/h to m/s, divide the speed value by 3.6. For example, 36 km/h ÷ 3.6 = 10 m/s. This is because 1 kilometer = 1000 meters and 1 hour = 3600 seconds, so 1 km/h = 1000/3600 = 1/3.6 m/s.
Why is the conversion factor 3.6 used for km/h to m/s?
The factor 3.6 comes from converting kilometers to meters (1 km = 1000 m) and hours to seconds (1 hour = 3600 s). So, 1 km/h = 1000/3600 = 1/3.6 m/s.
What are some real-world examples where km/h to m/s conversion is important?
This conversion is used in physics problems, sports timing (like running or cycling speeds), car crash analysis, and engineering calculations where SI units are required.
How do I use this conversion in physics or engineering problems?
Many physics formulas (like kinetic energy, momentum, or acceleration) require speed in m/s. If your data is in km/h, convert it to m/s first for accurate results.
Can I use this calculator for running, cycling, or vehicle speeds?
Absolutely! This conversion is perfect for athletes, coaches, and anyone comparing speeds in different units, whether for running, cycling, or driving.
What are common mistakes when converting km/h to m/s?
A common mistake is multiplying instead of dividing by 3.6, or confusing km/h with mph. Always check your units and use the correct factor.
How accurate is the km/h to m/s conversion for scientific work?
The conversion is exact for standard definitions. For most scientific, engineering, and educational purposes, dividing by 3.6 is fully accurate.
How do I convert meters per second back to kilometers per hour?
To convert m/s to km/h, multiply the value by 3.6. For example, 10 m/s × 3.6 = 36 km/h.

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