Potassium (K) Unit Converter

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Potassium (K⁺) is the major intracellular cation in the human body, playing a crucial role in maintaining cell membrane potential, nerve conduction, and cardiac function.

This converter facilitates switching between the standard SI molar units (mmol/L), milliequivalents (mEq/L), and mass units (mg/dL) often used in older literature or specific chemistry analyzers.

SI Units / Standard

Recommended

mmol/L

mEq/L

For Potassium, 1 mmol/L is equivalent to 1 mEq/L.

Mass Units

mg/dL

mg/L

Clinical Context

Reference Range (Serum): Typically 3.5 – 5.0 mmol/L (mEq/L).

Critical Values:
• Hypokalemia: < 2.5 mmol/L (Risk of arrhythmia, muscle weakness).
• Hyperkalemia: > 6.5 mmol/L (High risk of cardiac arrest).

Conversion Logic:
Atomic Weight of Potassium: ~39.1 g/mol.
1 mmol/L = 1 mEq/L (Valence = 1).
1 mmol/L ≈ 3.91 mg/dL.

Clinical References

How to Use This Converter

Follow these steps to normalize Potassium values.

Enter Values

Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., mmol/L).

Automatic Conversion

The calculator instantly updates all other fields. For K+, mEq/L and mmol/L will show the same value.

Reset

Use the Clear button to reset all fields.

? Frequently Asked Questions

Is mEq/L the same as mmol/L for Potassium?

Yes. Because potassium has a charge of +1, 1 millimole equals 1 milliequivalent.

Why is high potassium dangerous?

Hyperkalemia disrupts the electrical signals in the heart, potentially leading to fatal arrhythmias or cardiac arrest.

Disclaimer: This converter is for educational and reference purposes only. It is not intended for clinical diagnosis, treatment, or decision-making. Always verify results with your laboratory’s official reports and reference ranges.

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