What is a poundal and how is it defined?

A poundal (pdl) is a force unit in the foot–pound–second system defined as the force producing one foot per second squared acceleration on one avoirdupois pound of mass.

How does a decinewton relate to a newton?

A decinewton (dN) is equal to one tenth of a newton (0.1 N) and is used to measure relatively small forces.

Why convert poundal to decinewton?

Converting from poundal to decinewton helps translate legacy FPS force measurements into more modern SI-derived units suitable for precise, small-force applications.

How to Convert from Poundal [pdl] to Decinewton [dN]

Learn to convert force measurements from poundal (pdl) in the FPS system to decinewton (dN) in the SI-derived system, useful for classical mechanics, legacy data, and small-force experiments.

Poundal [pdl]

Decinewton [dN]

Please check your input. It must be a valid numeric value.

Poundal [pdl] to Decinewton [dN] Conversion Table

Poundal [pdl]	Decinewton [dN]

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Start Value

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Poundal [pdl] to Decinewton [dN] Conversion Table
Poundal [pdl]	Decinewton [dN]

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What Is This Tool?

This unit converter facilitates transforming values of force from poundal, a unit used in the foot–pound–second (FPS) system, into decinewton, an SI-derived unit. It supports users working with classical mechanics problems, legacy engineering data, and precise small-force measurements.

How to Use This Tool?

Enter the force value in poundal (pdl) you want to convert.
Select poundal as the input unit and decinewton as the output unit.
Click the convert button to get the equivalent force in decinewton (dN).

Key Features

Converts force values from poundal (pdl) to decinewton (dN).
Based on the exact conversion factor: 1 pdl = 1.3825495438 dN.
Supports usage scenarios from educational labs to legacy data interpretation.
Browser-based tool for quick and easy calculations without complex setup.

Examples

5 poundal = 6.9127477 decinewton
10 poundal = 13.825495438 decinewton

Common Use Cases

Solving classical mechanics exercises that use FPS units.
Converting legacy engineering, ballistics, or archival technical force data.
Measuring small forces in mechanical testing and laboratory environments.
Calibrating tactile sensors and actuators in robotics and electronics.

Tips & Best Practices

Verify unit definitions when working with legacy data to avoid misinterpretation.
Use this conversion to translate FPS measurements into SI-derived units accurately.
Apply this tool when small force resolution is needed for precise engineering work.

Limitations

The poundal is uncommon outside legacy contexts and may require careful interpretation.
Precision might be affected by rounding during conversion.
Poundal is not a standard SI unit and can cause confusion without context.
Variations in foot or pound definitions might slightly alter conversion accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a poundal and how is it defined?: A poundal (pdl) is a force unit in the foot–pound–second system defined as the force producing one foot per second squared acceleration on one avoirdupois pound of mass.
How does a decinewton relate to a newton?: A decinewton (dN) is equal to one tenth of a newton (0.1 N) and is used to measure relatively small forces.
Why convert poundal to decinewton?: Converting from poundal to decinewton helps translate legacy FPS force measurements into more modern SI-derived units suitable for precise, small-force applications.

Key Terminology

Poundal [pdl]: A unit of force in the FPS system defined as the force causing 1 ft/s² acceleration of one avoirdupois pound mass.
Decinewton [dN]: An SI-derived force unit equal to one tenth of a newton, useful for expressing small forces.
Foot–pound–second (FPS) system: A system of units used primarily in classical mechanics involving feet, pounds, and seconds.

Quick Knowledge Check

Which system uses the poundal as a force unit?

Metric system

Foot–pound–second (FPS) system

International System of Units (SI)

How many decinewtons equal one poundal approximately?

0.138 dN

1.38 dN

10 dN

What is the decinewton unit best used for?

Measuring large astronomical forces

Expressing small forces in precise engineering contexts

Measuring electrical current

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