Surface Tension Converter
Convert between 7 units of surface tension — N/m, mN/m, dyn/cm, erg/cm², lbf/ft, lbf/in, and erg/mm².
About the Surface Tension Converter
Surface tension arises because molecules at a liquid's surface experience an unbalanced net inward force — there are no neighbours above them. This creates a skin-like elastic layer at the surface. The SI unit is newtons per metre (N/m). Surface tension is why water forms spherical droplets, why some insects can walk on water, and why soap is effective at cleaning — it dramatically reduces water's surface tension.
- ›Water has a surface tension of 72.8 mN/m at 20 °C — one of the highest of any liquid
- ›Mercury's surface tension is approximately 485 mN/m — nearly 7× that of water
- ›Soap reduces water's surface tension from ~73 to ~25 mN/m
- ›Surface tension decreases with increasing temperature in almost all liquids
Frequently Asked Questions
What units does the Surface Tension Converter support?
The Surface Tension Converter supports multiple units with instant conversion. Convert between 7 units of surface tension — N/m, mN/m, dyn/cm, erg/cm², lbf/ft, lbf/in, and erg/mm². All results use SI-validated constants accurate to 8 significant figures.
Is this Surface Tension Converter free?
Yes — completely free. No registration, no limits. Works on all devices including mobile.
How accurate is this converter?
Accurate to 8 significant figures using precise mathematical constants validated against international SI standards (NIST and ISO 80000).