Conversion Formula:
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The conversion between kilometers per hour (kph) and miles per hour (mph) is essential for understanding speed measurements in different systems. While most countries use the metric system (kph), some like the United States use mph.
The calculator uses the following formulas:
Where:
Explanation: The conversion factor 0.621371 comes from the exact definition that 1 kilometer equals 0.621371 miles.
Details: This conversion is useful for international travelers, automotive industry professionals, and anyone working with speed measurements from different countries.
Tips: Enter speed in kph to get the equivalent in mph. Optionally add time in hours to calculate distance traveled. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why is the conversion factor 0.621371?
A: This exact value comes from the international agreement that 1 mile equals exactly 1.609344 kilometers, making 1/1.609344 ≈ 0.621371.
Q2: How accurate is this conversion?
A: The conversion is mathematically exact when using the full precision factor. Our calculator rounds to 2 decimal places for readability.
Q3: Can I convert mph back to kph?
A: Yes, to convert mph to kph, divide by 0.621371 or multiply by 1.609344.
Q4: What's the difference between kph and km/h?
A: They are the same unit - kph is just an abbreviation for kilometers per hour (km/h).
Q5: Why do some countries use mph while others use kph?
A: This is primarily due to historical reasons. Most countries have adopted the metric system (kph), while a few (like the US and UK) still use imperial units (mph) for road signs.