How to convert nanoseconds to seconds
To convert a measurement in nanoseconds to seconds, multiply the value by 0.000000001. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the second.
For example, to convert 5 ns to seconds: 5 × 0.000000001 = 0.000000005 s.
What is a nanosecond?
A nanosecond is one billionth of a second (0.000000001 s). Light travels about 30 centimeters in one nanosecond. The nanosecond is fundamental to modern computing; CPU clock cycles and memory access times are measured in nanoseconds. Grace Hopper famously illustrated a nanosecond as a ~30 cm length of wire.
Common uses of nanoseconds include: CPU clock cycles and memory latency; Fiber-optic and high-frequency electronics; Particle physics event timing; GPS signal timing and synchronization.
What is a second?
A second is the SI base unit of time, defined by the radiation period of the caesium-133 atom (9,192,631,770 cycles). Historically defined as 1/86,400 of a mean solar day, the second was redefined in 1967 using atomic clocks, making it one of the most precisely realized units in all of science.
Common uses of seconds include: Scientific timing and physics experiments; Sports timing and lap records; Computing timeouts and latency measurements; Everyday stopwatch and countdown timing.
Nanoseconds to seconds worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 ns = 0.000000001 s 5 ns = 0.000000005 s 10 ns = 0.00000001 s 50 ns = 0.00000005 s 100 ns = 0.0000001 s
Frequently asked questions
How many seconds are in one nanosecond?
One nanosecond (ns) equals 0.000000001 seconds (s). Multiply any value in nanoseconds by 0.000000001 to convert to seconds.
How do I convert nanoseconds to seconds?
Multiply the value in nanoseconds by 0.000000001. For example, 5 ns × 0.000000001 = 0.000000005 s.
How do I convert seconds to nanoseconds?
Multiply the value in seconds by 1,000,000,000, or divide by 0.000000001. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the nanosecond to second conversion exact?
Fixed units (second through week) are exact. Month and year use the average Gregorian calendar length (30.44 and 365.2425 days) since these vary in practice.
What is the formula for nanoseconds to seconds?
The formula is: s = ns × 0.000000001. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the second.