This article will show how to convert voltage measurement units from megavolts (MV) to microvolts (µV). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of Volt, Megavolt, and Microvolt
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions of Volt (V), Megavolt (MV) and Microvolt (µV). Understanding these terms will allow you to perform conversions confidently.
What is Volt (V)?
A volt (V) is the SI (International System of Units) unit of electric potential and voltage. It measures the difference in electric energy between two points in a circuit. One volt means one ampere of current uses one watt of power.[1]
According to SI prefixes[2], which are based on powers of 10, a volt (1 V) is equivalent to one-millionth megavolts, or 10-6 MV, or 0.000001 MV.
What is Megavolt (MV)?
A megavolt (MV) is a unit of electrical potential equal to one million volts (1,000,000 V). Think of it like comparing the height of a building to a mountain. Megavolts help quantify extremely high voltages where standard volt measurements are impractical.
What is Microvolt (µV)?
A microvolt (µV) is a unit of electrical potential equal to one-millionth (1/1,000,000) of a volt (0.000001 V). It is commonly used in applications requiring high-precision voltage measurements, such as biomedical sensors (e.g., EEG and ECG devices), seismic monitoring, and radio signal detection, where extremely small electrical signals must be accurately captured and analyzed.
Its fine resolution makes it essential for systems sensitive to even the slightest voltage variations.
MV to µV formula
Let’s take a closer look at the conversion formula so you can carry out these conversions independently, whether using a calculator or doing it manually with pencil and paper.
The mega- prefix in the International System of Units (SI) represents a multiplier of 106 (1,000,000) while the micro- represents a multiplier of 10-6 (0.000001) .
So, to convert from megavolts to microvolts, multiply the number of megavolts (V(MV)) by 1012 or 1,000,000,000,000.
V(µV) = V(MV) × 1012 = V(MV) × 1,000,000,000,000
Or remember the MV-to-µV conversion factor: 1 MV = 1012 = 1,000,000,000,000 µV
MV to µV conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting voltage measurement units from megavolts (MV) to microvolts (µV). It covers a range from 0.1 MV to 1,000 MV, allowing for easy and quick conversions between both units of measurement.
| Megavolts (MV) | Microvolts (µV) |
|---|---|
| 0.1 MV | 100,000,000,000 µV |
| 0.5 MV | 500,000,000,000 µV |
| 1 MV | 1,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 2 MV | 2,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 4 MV | 4,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 5 MV | 5,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 10 MV | 10,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 20 MV | 20,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 30 MV | 30,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 40 MV | 40,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 50 MV | 50,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 60 MV | 60,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 70 MV | 70,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 80 MV | 80,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 90 MV | 90,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 100 MV | 100,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 200 MV | 200,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 500 MV | 500,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 800 MV | 800,000,000,000,000 µV |
| 1,000 MV | 1,000,000,000,000,000 µV |
Examples
Now, let's look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from megavolts to microvolts (MV to µV).
Example: X-ray Machine Fine-Tuning
X-ray machines use megavolt power levels for radiation generation, but internal diagnostics require microvolt precision to optimize imaging quality and radiation exposure levels.
If a machine operates at 4.6 megavolts, how many microvolts is that to refine voltage calibration for high-resolution medical imaging?
Solution
Since 1 megavolt (MV) = 1012 = 1,000,000,000,000 microvolts (µV), we can convert 4.6 MV to microvolts by using the following formula:
Therefore, the X-ray machine operates at 4.6 MV is equivalent to 4,600,000,000,000 µV.
To solve the problem with our calculator, follow the steps below:
- Enter the value in megavolts – For this example, enter
4.6into theFrombox. - View the result – The converter instantly calculates and displays the equivalent value in microvolts:
4,600,000,000,000 µV.
FAQs
Is 1 megavolt or 1 microvolt larger?
A megavolt (MV) is a trilion times bigger than a microvolt (µV). Here are the relationships between the units:
1 MV = 1012 = 1,000,000,000,000 µV1 µV = 10-12 = 1 ÷ 1,000,000,000,000 = 0.000000000001 MV
How to convert from megavolts to microvolts?
To convert voltage from megavolts (MV) to microvolts (µV), follow these simple steps:
- Write down the voltage value in
megavolts (MV). - Multiply it by the value of the
MV-to-µVconversion factor:1012or1,000,000,000,000. - The result of the multiplication is the value of the voltage in
microvolts (µV).
Why do I need to convert from megavolts to microvolts?
Megavolts (MV) represent large voltage values, while microvolts (µV) allow for highly precise measurements of small variations in electrical signals. Converting megavolts to microvolts is essential in fields such as medical imaging, aerospace engineering, and quantum computing, where even minor voltage shifts can affect system performance and accuracy.
This conversion enables scientists and engineers to analyze fine-scale electrical changes, optimize equipment sensitivity, and ensure stable operation in high-energy environments. Whether refining X-ray machine calibration, monitoring spacecraft voltage fluctuations, or detecting interference in superconducting circuits, microvolt precision is crucial for advanced research and technology.
You now know how to convert voltage from megavolts (MV) to microvolts (µV). You can quickly use our calculator to convert between the voltage measurement units to save time for future calculations.
