Poise to Stokes Converter

Poise-Stokes Converter

Convert between dynamic viscosity (Poise) and kinematic viscosity (Stokes) using fluid density.

Last updated: March 2026 | By ForgeCalc Engineering

100 cP (Centipoise)

Kinematic Viscosity
1
Stokes (cm²/s)

100 cSt (Centistokes)

What is Viscosity?

Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. There are two main types: Dynamic Viscosity (absolute) and Kinematic Viscosity. Dynamic viscosity measures the internal friction of a fluid, while kinematic viscosity is the ratio of dynamic viscosity to density.

The Poise (P) is the CGS unit for dynamic viscosity, named after Jean Léonard Marie Poiseuille. The Stokes (St) is the CGS unit for kinematic viscosity, named after George Gabriel Stokes. In many industrial applications, the smaller units Centipoise (cP) and Centistokes (cSt) are more commonly used.

How to Convert Poise to Stokes

The Conversion Formula

ν = μ / ρ
  • ν (Nu) = Kinematic Viscosity (Stokes)
  • μ (Mu) = Dynamic Viscosity (Poise)
  • ρ (Rho) = Fluid Density (g/cm³)

Step-by-Step Method

  1. Identify the dynamic viscosity of the fluid in Poise (P).
  2. Determine the density of the fluid in grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³).
  3. Divide the dynamic viscosity by the density.
  4. The result is the kinematic viscosity in Stokes (St).
  5. To get Centistokes (cSt), multiply the result by 100.

Example Calculation

Convert the viscosity of a specific oil:

Given:
Values:
Dynamic Viscosity
0.85 Poise
Density
0.92 g/cm³

Calculation: ν = 0.85 / 0.92

Final Answer: The kinematic viscosity is 0.923913 Stokes or 92.3913 cSt.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the relation between Poise and Pascal-seconds?

1 Poise is equal to 0.1 Pascal-second (Pa·s). Therefore, 10 Poise = 1 Pa·s.

Why do we use Centistokes more than Stokes?

Centistokes (cSt) are more convenient because many common fluids (like water at 20°C, which is ~1 cSt) have values that are easier to work with in this unit.

Does temperature affect these values?

Yes, viscosity is highly temperature-dependent. Most fluids become less viscous as temperature increases.

How do I convert cSt back to cP?

Multiply Centistokes by the fluid's density (g/cm³) to get Centipoise: cP = cSt × ρ.

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