Know The Conversion of Miles To Kilometers (Miles To Km)

If you are looking to convert miles to km, then you have landed on the right page. This article enumerates the definitions of both miles and kilometers, their formulas, equations, and differences. Furthermore, a conversion table is presented which will simplify this conversion process for you. But first let’s start with the basics. 

What is a Mile?

A mile is a unit of distance used to measure a land’s length. Miles is used in both US and Imperial customary measurement systems. The symbol is represented by m or mi. 

• Current Use of Mile

As per the current usage, the unit of distance miles calculates the exact length of any route. After the metric system was introduced, several countries including the United States and the United Kingdom adopted miles to measure distances. Miles is still widely used in many countries as a unit of distance measurement. 

• History of Mile

The word mile first originated in Roman times, and was commonly used by Roman soldiers who travelled extensive distances. The soldiers took five-foot-long leaps which were called ‘paces’. However, it was not possible to measure 1000 in this set way. Hence, the usage of the word ‘mile’ which is the Latin word for 1000. This milestone distance was known to be called ‘mille passuum’ which translates to ‘one thousand strides or paces’. Mille passuum is now known to be called mile. 

In Britain, the mile was established as 8 furlongs as per the law. The furlong being 40 rods pr 16 and a half feet long. In conclusion, the mile as per state law was 5280 feet long which still stands uncorrected. 

What is a Kilometer?

A kilometer is designated as a unit of measurement as per the International Standard System of Units. The term kilometer is used to determine the length between two points. It is denoted as ‘km’. A km can also be converted into numerous units. On the contrary, a km is derived from the unit meter which measures length. 

• Current Use of Kilometer

A kilometer is used to measure the distance between two set points. Currently, the kilometer is used for the same purpose for which it was established i.e. to measure the path/distance for any route. 

• History of Kilometer

The French Academy of Sciences was directed to establish a new measuring system by the French National Constituent Assembly as per a law passed in 1970. In 1973, it was proclaimed that meter should be used as a measuring system for the French Republic land. 

Initially, the kilometer was called a ‘Millaire’. In 1799, the meter started to be called the myriameter (10000 meters). Also, the kilometer as a unit is recommended for laymen and everyday use. In 1817, the Dutch adopted kilometer as a unit of measurement and called it ‘mijl’. In 1867, kilometer became the official unit of measurement in the Netherlands that represented 100 meters. 

Relationship Between Miles and Kilometers

The relationship between miles and kilometers is easy to comprehend. 

The relationship between the two is as follows –

1 Mile = 1.609344 kilometers.

One kilometer = 0.6213711922 miles.

This relationship helps in determining the miles to km conversion formula. One can use this formula to convert miles to km with ease. 

What is The Difference Between Miles and Kilometer?

Both miles and kilometers are used to measure distances. However, there are some fundamental differences between the two that puts them apart. These are as follows:

Formula For Converting Miles To Kilometer

Converting miles to km is a piece of cake. To convert miles to km, multiply the value of miles by 1.60934. The outcome value would result in kilometers. 

Let’s understand the miles to km conversion formula with the help of an example. 

Example – Convert 20 miles to km.

Solution: By putting the value of miles in the above formula, we will get:

= 20 * 1.60934

= 32.1868 kilometers

Similarly, you can convert 20 kilometers into miles by using the formula. 

= 20 * 0.62137119 

= 12.4274238 miles

Mile To Kilometer Conversion Table

This conversion table will simplify the miles to km conversion process for you. 

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