Velocity Converter

Convert between different velocity units with our free online calculator. Perfect for engineering, physics, and scientific applications.

Conversion Examples

Common velocity conversions

FromToContext
1 Meters per Second (m/s)3.6000 Kilometers per Hour (km/h)Walking speed
100 Kilometers per Hour (km/h)62.1370 Miles per Hour (mph)Highway speed limit
60 Miles per Hour (mph)88.0000 Feet per Second (ft/s)Typical highway driving
20 Knots (kn)37.0400 Kilometers per Hour (km/h)Sailing vessel speed

Practical Applications

Transportation Engineering

Engineers use velocity conversions when designing roads, railways, and air traffic systems, often needing to convert between different units depending on local standards.

International Travel

Travelers need to understand speed limits and vehicle speedometers in different countries, which may use km/h or mph depending on the region.

Physics Education

Students and educators convert between velocity units when solving problems and understanding physical concepts across different textbooks and reference materials.

Weather Forecasting

Meteorologists convert wind speeds between different units (m/s, km/h, mph, knots) depending on the audience and application of their forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions about velocity Conversion

What is the difference between speed and velocity?

Speed is a scalar quantity that refers only to the magnitude of how fast an object is moving. Velocity is a vector quantity that refers to both the magnitude of how fast an object is moving and the direction in which it is moving.

Why do we use different units for velocity?

Different velocity units evolved for different applications and in different regions. For example, meters per second (m/s) is the SI unit used in scientific contexts, kilometers per hour (km/h) is used for road speeds in most countries, miles per hour (mph) is used in the US and UK, and knots are used in maritime and aviation.

How do I convert from km/h to mph?

To convert from kilometers per hour (km/h) to miles per hour (mph), multiply the km/h value by 0.621371. For example, 100 km/h equals approximately 62.1 mph.

What is a knot and why is it used?

A knot is a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour (approximately 1.15 mph or 1.852 km/h). It is used primarily in maritime and aviation contexts because nautical miles are based on the circumference of the Earth, making them convenient for navigation.

Which velocity unit is used in scientific calculations?

The SI unit for velocity, meters per second (m/s), is typically used in scientific and engineering calculations. This ensures consistency with other SI units and simplifies calculations involving acceleration, force, and other physical quantities.