How to Convert Pascals to Kilopascals (Pa to kPa)
Pressure conversions are used for tyre pressure (psi or bar), blood pressure readings in mmHg and weather maps in millibars. This guide shows how to convert pascals into kilopascals by hand, with examples and a quick-reference table.
The conversion
To convert pascals to kilopascals, multiply the value by 0.001. To go the other way, divide by the same number (or multiply by 1,000). For a quick estimate, multiply by about 0.001.
Kilopascals = pascals × 0.001
Worked examples
- 3 Pa = 0.003 kPa
- 12.5 Pa = 0.0125 kPa
- 75 Pa = 0.075 kPa
Pascals to Kilopascals table
| Pascals | Kilopascals |
|---|---|
| 1 Pa | 0.001 kPa |
| 2 Pa | 0.002 kPa |
| 5 Pa | 0.005 kPa |
| 10 Pa | 0.01 kPa |
| 20 Pa | 0.02 kPa |
| 25 Pa | 0.025 kPa |
| 50 Pa | 0.05 kPa |
| 100 Pa | 0.1 kPa |
| 250 Pa | 0.25 kPa |
| 500 Pa | 0.5 kPa |
| 1,000 Pa | 1 kPa |
Common questions
Is Pa to kPa exact?
The factors used here are the internationally defined values where they exist; results are rounded for display only.
How do I convert back?
Use the Kilopascals to Pascals converter.
Mistakes to avoid
Rounding the factor too early
Using 3 instead of 3.28 for feet per metre introduces an error of almost 9% before you have started.
Multiplying when you should divide
Converting to a smaller unit gives a bigger number, and converting to a larger unit gives a smaller one. If your answer moves the wrong way, you have inverted the factor.
Dropping the units
A bare number without a unit is easy to misread later. Always write the unit with the result.
Background
Many conversion factors are exact by definition. The inch has been defined as exactly 2.54 centimetres since 1959, and the pound as exactly 0.45359237 kilograms, so conversions involving them can be as precise as you need.
A conversion table is handy for common values, but a calculator is faster and avoids interpolation errors for anything in between.
For everyday use, three or four significant figures are usually enough. Engineering, science and trade documents may need more, and rounding should happen only at the end of a calculation.
For any value, use the Pascals to Kilopascals Converter or browse all pressure converters.
Run your own numbers: Pascals to Kilopascals Converter