Convert Kilometers per Hour to Meters per Second

The Conversion Formula

To convert kilometers per hour to meters per second, multiply the value by the conversion factor: 1 km/h = 0.277778 m/s. For a worked example, suppose you need to convert 25 km/h to meters per second: 25 × 0.277778 = 6.9445 m/s. To convert in the opposite direction, divide by 0.277778, or equivalently multiply by 3.6.

About kilometers per hour

Kilometers per hour (km/h) is the standard unit for speed limits and car speedometers in almost every country except the US and UK. It gained dominance as the metric system spread in the 20th century. Even in the UK, which uses mph on signs, car speedometers must also show km/h. kilometers per hour are commonly used in Speed limits (Global), Car speedometers, High-speed trains, and Bicycle computers, Weather reports (some countries).

Highway speed limits are often 100-130 km/h.

About meters per second

Meters per second (m/s) is the scientific standard for velocity. It is an SI derived unit. It is the language of physics, from ballistics to aerodynamics. The speed of light itself is defined exactly in these units (299,792,458 m/s). It is rarely used for road speeds but is standard for wind speed in meteorology outside the US. meters per second are commonly used in Physics calculations, Wind speed (Scientific), Projectile motion, and Sprinter speeds, Industrial machinery.

A typical human walking speed is about 1.4 m/s.

When Would You Convert kilometers per hour to meters per second?

Converting between kilometers per hour and meters per second is one of the most common speed conversions. You might need this conversion when working with international specifications, following instructions written for a different measurement system, or comparing values across different standards. Having the conversion factor (1 km/h = 0.277778 m/s) memorized or bookmarked can save time in professional and everyday contexts alike.