Kilogram Converter
Convert Kilogram to Microgram and more • 73 conversions
0
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.
Microgramµg
Target UnitA microgram is a SI unit of mass equal to one millionth of a gram, or 1x10^-9 kilograms. It is commonly used to measure small quantities of mass in scientific fields such as chemistry, biology, and medicine. The microgram is part of the metric system and is denoted by the symbol µg. This unit is vital for expressing the mass of substances where precision is crucial, particularly in pharmaceuticals and nutritional information where dosages are often specified in micrograms.
Current Use
Today, the microgram is widely used in fields requiring precise measurements of small mass quantities, such as pharmacology, nutrition, and environmental science. It plays a crucial role in the formulation of medications, where dosage accuracy is critical. Additionally, it is used in nutritional labeling to indicate the presence of vitamins and minerals in food products. Environmental studies also rely on micrograms to measure pollutant concentrations.
Fun Fact
A microgram is so small that it is roughly equivalent to the mass of a single particle of tobacco smoke.
All Weight Conversions
148 convertersPopular Conversions
📐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.
Quick Examples
💡 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.
📏 Real-World Examples
🔗 Related Units
Microgram
weight • SI Unit
Definition
A microgram is a SI unit of mass equal to one millionth of a gram, or 1x10^-9 kilograms. It is commonly used to measure small quantities of mass in scientific fields such as chemistry, biology, and medicine. The microgram is part of the metric system and is denoted by the symbol µg. This unit is vital for expressing the mass of substances where precision is crucial, particularly in pharmaceuticals and nutritional information where dosages are often specified in micrograms.
History & Origin
The microgram as a unit of mass emerged with the widespread adoption of the metric system in the 19th century, which aimed to standardize measurements based on decimal multiples. The metric system was developed during the French Revolution and gradually became the standard for scientific and technical measurements worldwide. As the need for more precise units increased, especially in scientific research, the microgram became a standardized unit under the International System of Units (SI).
Etymology: The term 'microgram' combines the Greek word 'mikros' meaning 'small' and 'gramma', meaning 'a small weight'.
Current Use
Today, the microgram is widely used in fields requiring precise measurements of small mass quantities, such as pharmacology, nutrition, and environmental science. It plays a crucial role in the formulation of medications, where dosage accuracy is critical. Additionally, it is used in nutritional labeling to indicate the presence of vitamins and minerals in food products. Environmental studies also rely on micrograms to measure pollutant concentrations.
💡 Fun Facts
- •A microgram is so small that it is roughly equivalent to the mass of a single particle of tobacco smoke.
- •In terms of volume, one microgram of water would occupy approximately one cubic millimeter.
- •Microgram measurements are critical in space missions to ensure precise fuel calculations.
📏 Real-World Examples
🔗 Related Units
Related Weight Conversions
Explore more weight conversions for your calculations.
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.