Minute

Definition

A minute is a unit of time equal to 60 seconds. It is not an SI unit but is widely used in everyday life and various scientific fields. The symbol for minute is "min."

History

The term "minute" originates from the Latin "pars minuta prima," meaning "first small part." It was first used in medieval times for dividing hours into smaller segments. The division of an hour into 60 minutes dates back to ancient Sumerians, who used a base-60 number system.

Uses

Minutes are commonly used in everyday life to measure time for events, schedules, and activities. In science and engineering, minutes are often used in calculations involving time intervals, such as speed and motion. They are universally recognized across various cultures.

Conversions

• 1 minute = 60 seconds (exact)
• 1 minute = 1/60 hour
• 1 minute = 0.01667 hours (approx.)

Fun Facts

• A common misconception is that a minute is always 60 seconds; however, leap seconds can occasionally adjust timekeeping.
• The term "minute" is also used in navigation and mapping, representing one-sixtieth of a degree of latitude or longitude.