Calculator Inputs
Plotly Graph
This graph shows how resistivity changes across your selected conductivity range.
Example Data Table
| Conductivity | Material Context | Resistivity |
|---|---|---|
| 5.80e7 S/m | Copper-like high conductivity | 1.724e-8 ohm·m |
| 1.00e3 S/m | Poor conductor | 1.000e-3 ohm·m |
| 5.00 S/m | Saline solution range | 2.000e-1 ohm·m |
| 1.00e-2 S/m | Weak ionic conduction | 1.000e2 ohm·m |
| 1.00e-6 S/m | Insulating material region | 1.000e6 ohm·m |
Formula Used
Main conversion: ρ = 1 / σ
Temperature correction: σref = σmeasured / [1 + α(T - Tref)]
Reference resistivity: ρref = 1 / σref
Here, ρ is resistivity and σ is conductivity.
Resistivity uses ohm·m or ohm·cm units.
Conductivity usually uses S/m, S/cm, mS/cm, or uS/cm.
The optional temperature model uses a linear coefficient.
That helps compare values at a reference temperature.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the conductivity value you want to convert.
- Select the conductivity unit from the dropdown list.
- Choose the output resistivity unit you need.
- Enter temperature values for compensation if required.
- Add the temperature coefficient for the material.
- Set graph limits and chart sample points.
- Press Convert Now to calculate the result.
- Review the result cards, table, and graph.
- Download your output as CSV or PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the relationship between conductivity and resistivity?
They are reciprocals. Resistivity equals one divided by conductivity. A material with high conductivity has low resistivity. A material with low conductivity has high resistivity.
2. Why do unit choices matter here?
Conductivity and resistivity use different scales. A wrong unit can change the result by large factors. Always confirm whether your source data uses S/m, S/cm, mS/cm, or uS/cm.
3. When should I apply temperature correction?
Use temperature correction when conductivity was measured away from the desired reference temperature. This matters for liquids, semiconductors, and temperature-sensitive materials where electrical behavior shifts noticeably with heat.
4. What does the temperature coefficient represent?
The coefficient estimates how conductivity changes per degree. Positive values increase conductivity with temperature in this linear model. Always use a coefficient suited to your material and measurement conditions.
5. Can this calculator handle very small conductivity values?
Yes. It can handle very small positive inputs. Very small conductivity creates very large resistivity values, so scientific notation and careful unit selection improve readability.
6. Why is resistivity useful in physics?
Resistivity describes intrinsic opposition to current flow. It helps compare materials independent of shape. Engineers and physicists use it when analyzing conductors, insulators, fluids, and semiconductor behavior.
7. What does the graph show?
The graph plots resistivity against conductivity across your selected range. Because the relationship is reciprocal, the curve drops rapidly at lower conductivity values and flattens at higher values.
8. What should I do if my result looks wrong?
First, verify the conductivity unit. Then check the temperature, reference temperature, and coefficient. Most large errors come from unit mismatches or unintended temperature correction settings.