Kilogram Converter
Convert Kilogram to Kip and more • 73 conversions
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Unit Explanations
Kilogramkg
Source UnitThe kilogram, abbreviated as kg, is the SI unit of mass and is defined as being equal to the mass of the International Prototype of the Kilogram, which is a platinum-iridium cylinder kept at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) in Sèvres, France. This definition was established in 1889 and was the only base unit defined by a physical object. However, in 2019, the definition of the kilogram was redefined in terms of fundamental constants, specifically the Planck constant (h), which is set at exactly 6.62607015 × 10^-34 joule seconds. This redefinition allows for more precise measurements and ensures that the kilogram remains consistent and reproducible over time.
Current Use
Today, the kilogram is widely used across the globe as the standard unit of mass in scientific, commercial, and everyday contexts. It is employed in various industries including manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. For instance, in the food industry, products are often sold by mass, measured in kilograms. In healthcare, medication dosages may also be prescribed based on the patient’s weight in kilograms. While most countries use the kilogram as part of the metric system, some countries, such as the United States, still use imperial units for certain applications, though the metric system is increasingly adopted in scientific and technical fields. The versatility of the kilogram makes it a vital unit in international trade and commerce.
Fun Fact
The kilogram was the first unit of measurement to be defined by a physical artifact.
Kipkip
Target UnitThe kip, a non-SI unit of force, is defined as exactly 1,000 pounds-force (lbf). It is commonly used in engineering, particularly in the fields of civil and structural engineering, to express loads, particularly in the context of bridge and building design. The kip facilitates calculations involving large loads without the cumbersome use of decimal points, making it a convenient unit in various engineering applications.
Current Use
Today, the kip is widely used in the field of civil and structural engineering in the United States. It is particularly valuable for expressing forces in large structures, such as bridges and buildings, where loads can reach thousands of pounds. Engineers utilize the kip for load-bearing calculations, ensuring that structures can withstand the applied forces and remain stable.
Fun Fact
The kip is not an SI unit, but it is still widely accepted in engineering practices in the United States.
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📐Conversion Formula
= × 1.00000How to Convert
To convert to , multiply the value by 1.00000. This conversion factor represents the ratio between these two units.
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💡 Pro Tip: For the reverse conversion ( → ), divide by the conversion factor instead of multiplying.
Kilogram
force • SI Unit
Definition
The kilogram, abbreviated as kg, is the SI unit of mass and is defined as being equal to the mass of the International Prototype of the Kilogram, which is a platinum-iridium cylinder kept at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) in Sèvres, France. This definition was established in 1889 and was the only base unit defined by a physical object. However, in 2019, the definition of the kilogram was redefined in terms of fundamental constants, specifically the Planck constant (h), which is set at exactly 6.62607015 × 10^-34 joule seconds. This redefinition allows for more precise measurements and ensures that the kilogram remains consistent and reproducible over time.
History & Origin
The kilogram originated in the late 18th century during the period of the French Revolution, as part of the efforts to standardize measurements across France and eventually the world. The need for a uniform measurement system became apparent in the wake of the Revolution, as varying local measures were causing confusion and inefficiency in trade and governance. Thus, the metric system was born, with the kilogram being one of its foundational units. The first kilogram was defined as the mass of one liter of water at its maximum density, which is approximately equal to 1,000 cubic centimeters. This practical approach to defining mass allowed for easier adoption across various sectors.
Etymology: The term 'kilogram' is derived from the Greek word 'kilo', meaning 'a thousand', and the French word 'gramme', which itself comes from the Late Latin 'gramma', meaning 'small weight'.
Current Use
Today, the kilogram is widely used across the globe as the standard unit of mass in scientific, commercial, and everyday contexts. It is employed in various industries including manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. For instance, in the food industry, products are often sold by mass, measured in kilograms. In healthcare, medication dosages may also be prescribed based on the patient’s weight in kilograms. While most countries use the kilogram as part of the metric system, some countries, such as the United States, still use imperial units for certain applications, though the metric system is increasingly adopted in scientific and technical fields. The versatility of the kilogram makes it a vital unit in international trade and commerce.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The kilogram was the first unit of measurement to be defined by a physical artifact.
- •The International Prototype of the Kilogram lost mass over time, leading to the redefinition in 2019.
- •The kilogram is the only SI base unit with a prefix ('kilo') included in its name.
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Kip
weight • Non-SI
Definition
The kip, a non-SI unit of force, is defined as exactly 1,000 pounds-force (lbf). It is commonly used in engineering, particularly in the fields of civil and structural engineering, to express loads, particularly in the context of bridge and building design. The kip facilitates calculations involving large loads without the cumbersome use of decimal points, making it a convenient unit in various engineering applications.
History & Origin
The term 'kip' is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century, emerging from the need for a more manageable unit to express large forces in engineering contexts. Its usage became more widespread with the growth of structural engineering and the increasing complexity of construction projects that required precise load calculations.
Etymology: The word 'kip' is thought to be derived from the combination of the words 'k' for kilo and 'pound' or the phrase 'kilo-pounds', denoting its value as 1,000 pounds.
Current Use
Today, the kip is widely used in the field of civil and structural engineering in the United States. It is particularly valuable for expressing forces in large structures, such as bridges and buildings, where loads can reach thousands of pounds. Engineers utilize the kip for load-bearing calculations, ensuring that structures can withstand the applied forces and remain stable.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The kip is not an SI unit, but it is still widely accepted in engineering practices in the United States.
- •One kip is equivalent to approximately 4.448 kN (kilonewtons), making it useful for conversions in international engineering contexts.
- •The use of the kip allows engineers to avoid dealing with large numbers in pounds, simplifying calculations.
📏 Real-World Examples
🔗 Related Units
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert to ?▼
To convert to , multiply your value by 1. For example, 10 equals 10 .
What is the formula for to conversion?▼
The formula is: = × 1. This conversion factor is based on international standards.
Is this to converter accurate?▼
Yes! MetricConv uses internationally standardized conversion factors from organizations like NIST and ISO. Our calculations support up to 15 decimal places of precision, making it suitable for scientific, engineering, and everyday calculations.
Can I convert back to ?▼
Absolutely! You can use the swap button (⇄) in the converter above to reverse the conversion direction, or visit our to converter.