Unit Converter – Convert Between Different Units

Unit Converter

Convert between length, weight, temperature, volume, area, speed, power, and angle units with our comprehensive converter tool.

Unit Conversion Calculator

Converting…

Conversion Result

Converted Value
0
Conversion Formula
1 unit = 1 unit

Conversion Steps

About Unit Conversion

History of Unit Systems

Unit conversion has been essential throughout human history for trade, science, and engineering. Early civilizations developed their own measurement systems based on everyday objects and natural phenomena. The metric system, developed during the French Revolution, was a significant step toward standardization, eventually evolving into the International System of Units (SI) used globally today.

Different regions developed their own systems, such as the imperial system in the British Empire and the US customary system in the United States. These systems are still in use today, creating the need for reliable conversion tools.

Types of Unit Conversions

Our converter handles multiple types of unit conversions:

  • Length: Converting between units like meters, feet, inches, centimeters, and miles.
  • Weight: Converting between units like kilograms, pounds, grams, and ounces.
  • Temperature: Converting between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin scales.
  • Volume: Converting between units like liters, gallons, milliliters, and cups.
  • Area: Converting between units like square feet, acres, and square meters.
  • Speed: Converting between units like miles per hour and kilometers per hour.
  • Power: Converting between units like horsepower and kilowatts.
  • Angle: Converting between units like degrees and radians.

Practical Applications

Unit conversion is essential in numerous fields and everyday situations:

  • International Trade: Converting between different measurement systems for products and materials.
  • Science and Engineering: Ensuring consistent units in calculations and experiments.
  • Travel: Understanding distances, speeds, and temperatures in different countries.
  • Cooking: Converting between different volume and weight measurements in recipes.
  • Construction: Converting between metric and imperial units for building materials.

How to Use This Converter

Our unit converter tool allows you to convert between various units quickly and accurately. Simply select the conversion type from the dropdown menu, enter the value you want to convert, and click the Convert button. The tool will display the converted value, the conversion formula used, and step-by-step calculations showing how the conversion was performed.

You can also filter conversions by category using the category buttons at the top of the converter. This makes it easier to find the specific conversion you need without scrolling through all options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between metric and imperial units?
The metric system is based on multiples of 10 and is used globally in science and most countries. It includes units like meters, kilograms, and liters. The imperial system, used primarily in the United States, includes units like feet, pounds, and gallons. The imperial system is not decimal-based, making conversions between units more complex.
How do I convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit, use the formula: °F = (°C × 9/5) + 32. For example, 20°C equals (20 × 9/5) + 32 = 68°F. To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, use the formula: °C = (°F – 32) × 5/9.
How many centimeters are in an inch?
There are exactly 2.54 centimeters in an inch. This conversion is standardized internationally. For example, 5 inches equals 5 × 2.54 = 12.7 centimeters.
How do I convert kilograms to pounds?
To convert kilograms to pounds, multiply the number of kilograms by 2.20462. For example, 10 kilograms equals 10 × 2.20462 = 22.0462 pounds. To convert pounds to kilograms, divide by 2.20462.
What is the difference between miles per hour and kilometers per hour?
Miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (kph) are both units of speed. One mile equals approximately 1.60934 kilometers, so to convert mph to kph, multiply by 1.60934. For example, 60 mph equals 60 × 1.60934 = 96.5604 kph.
How many liters are in a gallon?
There are approximately 3.78541 liters in a US gallon. For example, 5 gallons equals 5 × 3.78541 = 18.92705 liters. Note that the UK gallon is larger, containing approximately 4.54609 liters.
How do I convert acres to square feet?
One acre equals 43,560 square feet. To convert acres to square feet, multiply the number of acres by 43,560. For example, 2 acres equals 2 × 43,560 = 87,120 square feet.
What is the relationship between horsepower and kilowatts?
One horsepower equals approximately 0.7457 kilowatts. To convert horsepower to kilowatts, multiply by 0.7457. For example, 100 horsepower equals 100 × 0.7457 = 74.57 kilowatts. To convert kilowatts to horsepower, divide by 0.7457.
How do I convert degrees to radians?
To convert degrees to radians, multiply by π/180 (approximately 0.0174533). For example, 90 degrees equals 90 × π/180 = π/2 radians (approximately 1.5708 radians). To convert radians to degrees, multiply by 180/π.
Why are there so many different units of measurement?
Different units of measurement developed historically in different cultures and regions for various purposes. Some units were based on human body parts (like feet and hands), while others were based on natural phenomena or practical needs. The lack of standardization led to many different systems, which is why conversion tools are necessary today.