Viscosity - Kinematic Converter
Convert kinematic viscosity between square metres per second, stokes and centistokes.
Written by Rahman · Last reviewed
Quick answer
Kinematic viscosity is dynamic viscosity divided by density, in square metres per second. One stokes is 10⁻⁴ m²/s and one centistokes is 10⁻⁶ m²/s. Water at 20 °C is about 1 centistokes, and engine oil grades such as 10W-40 are defined by kinematic viscosity measured at specified temperatures.
| Square metre per second (m²/s) | 1 |
| Square centimetre per second (cm²/s) | 10000 |
| Square millimetre per second (mm²/s) | 1000000 |
| Stokes (St) | 10000 |
| Centistokes (cSt) | 1000000 |
| Square foot per second (ft²/s) | 10.76391042 |
About the Viscosity - Kinematic Converter
Kinematic viscosity is dynamic viscosity divided by the fluid's density. The SI unit is the square metre per second, with the stokes and centistokes also common.
It is often used to specify lubricating oils and to analyse fluid flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kinematic viscosity?
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It is the ratio of a fluid’s dynamic viscosity to its density, describing how the fluid flows under gravity.
What is a centistokes?
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A centistokes is a unit of kinematic viscosity; water at 20°C is about 1 centistokes. Engine oils are often graded in centistokes.
Why use kinematic instead of dynamic viscosity?
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Kinematic viscosity is convenient when gravity drives the flow, as in many lubricant and pipeline applications.