How to convert nanometers to meters
To convert a measurement in nanometers to meters, multiply the value by 1.000000e-9. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the meter (the SI base unit of length).
For example, to convert 5 nm to meters: 5 × 1.000000e-9 = 5.000000e-9 m.
What is a nanometer?
A nanometer is a metric unit of length equal to one billionth of a meter (0.000000001 m) or one thousandth of a micrometer. The nanometer gained prominence in the late 20th century with advances in nanotechnology and semiconductor manufacturing. The prefix 'nano' comes from the Greek 'nanos' (dwarf).
Common uses of nanometers include: Semiconductor transistor sizes (e.g. 5nm, 3nm chips); Light wavelengths (visible light: 380–700 nm); DNA strand diameter (~2.5 nm); UV protection ratings and sunscreen specifications.
What is a meter?
A meter is the SI base unit of length, defined as the distance light travels in vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second. Originally defined in 1793 as one ten-millionth of the distance from the equator to the North Pole. Redefined in 1983 using the speed of light, making it one of the most precisely defined units in science.
Common uses of meters include: Building construction and architecture; Athletic track events (100m, 200m, 400m); Room dimensions and furniture sizing; Scientific measurements and lab work.
Nanometers to meters worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 nm = 1.000000e-9 m 5 nm = 5.000000e-9 m 10 nm = 1.000000e-8 m 50 nm = 5.000000e-8 m 100 nm = 1.000000e-7 m
Frequently asked questions
How many meters are in one nanometer?
One nanometer (nm) equals 1.000000e-9 meters (m). Multiply any value in nanometers by 1.000000e-9 to convert to meters.
How do I convert nanometers to meters?
Multiply the value in nanometers by 1.000000e-9. For example, 5 nm × 1.000000e-9 = 5.000000e-9 m.
How do I convert meters to nanometers?
Multiply the value in meters by 1,000,000,000, or divide by 1.000000e-9. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the nanometer to meter conversion exact?
Yes, metric-to-metric length conversions are exact because all metric units are defined as powers of 10 relative to the meter.
What is the formula for nanometers to meters?
The formula is: m = nm × 1.000000e-9. This is derived from the definition of both units relative to the meter (the SI base unit of length).