Kilohertz (kHz)
Definition: A kilohertz (symbol: kHz) is a multiple of the hertz, equaling 1,000 cycles per second.
History/origin: As early radio technology developed in the early 20th century, scientists needed a larger unit to describe the higher frequencies used for AM (Amplitude Modulation) broadcasting.
Current use: Kilohertz are commonly used to measure AM radio broadcasts, audio sample rates (like CDs at 44.1 kHz), and the frequency of ultrasound devices.
Megahertz (MHz)
Definition: A megahertz (symbol: MHz) is a unit of frequency equal to one million (1,000,000) cycles per second.
History/origin: Historically known as "megacycles per second," the MHz became widely used during the popularization of FM radio and VHF/UHF television broadcasting in the mid-20th century.
Current use: MHz is the standard measurement for FM radio broadcasts, analog television signals, two-way radios (walkie-talkies), and the clock speeds of early computer processors (like the classic 66 MHz Pentium).
Kilohertz (kHz) to Megahertz (MHz) Conversion Table
| Kilohertz (kHz) [khz] | Megahertz (MHz) [mhz] |
|---|---|
| 0.01 khz | 0.00001 mhz |
| 0.1 khz | 0.0001 mhz |
| 1 khz | 0.001 mhz |
| 2 khz | 0.002 mhz |
| 3 khz | 0.003 mhz |
| 5 khz | 0.005 mhz |
| 10 khz | 0.01 mhz |
| 20 khz | 0.02 mhz |
| 50 khz | 0.05 mhz |
| 100 khz | 0.1 mhz |
| 1000 khz | 1 mhz |
How to Convert Kilohertz (kHz) to Megahertz (MHz)
1 khz = 0.001 mhz
1 mhz = 1000 khz
Example: convert 15 khz to mhz:
15 khz = 15 × 0.001 mhz = 0.015 mhz
Did You Know?
- AM radio stations broadcast their signals in Kilohertz (kHz). For example, a station at "790 on the AM dial" is broadcasting at exactly 790 kHz.
- FM radio stations broadcast in Megahertz (MHz). If your favorite station is 89.6 FM, their radio tower is transmitting electromagnetic waves at 89.6 million cycles per second!