Kilogram Converter
Convert Kilogram to Ton Short 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.
Short Tonton
Target UnitThe short ton, also known as the US ton, is a unit of mass commonly used in the United States and is equivalent to 2,000 pounds or approximately 907.185 kilograms. It is a non-SI unit that is primarily used in industries such as shipping and freight, where weight is a critical factor. The short ton is distinct from other ton measures like the long ton, which is used in the UK and equals 2,240 pounds, and the metric ton, which is 1,000 kilograms. This unit is essential for converting and calculating weights in various applications, especially in commerce and trade.
Current Use
The short ton is widely used in the United States for various applications, including shipping, construction, and agriculture. It serves as a crucial unit for expressing weight in commercial transactions, especially in the transport of bulk materials like coal, grain, and heavy machinery.
Fun Fact
The short ton is primarily used in the United States, while other countries may use the long ton or metric ton.
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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.
📏 Real-World Examples
🔗 Related Units
Short Ton
weight • Non-SI
Definition
The short ton, also known as the US ton, is a unit of mass commonly used in the United States and is equivalent to 2,000 pounds or approximately 907.185 kilograms. It is a non-SI unit that is primarily used in industries such as shipping and freight, where weight is a critical factor. The short ton is distinct from other ton measures like the long ton, which is used in the UK and equals 2,240 pounds, and the metric ton, which is 1,000 kilograms. This unit is essential for converting and calculating weights in various applications, especially in commerce and trade.
History & Origin
The short ton originated in the United States during the 19th century as a standard weight measurement for commerce. Its establishment was crucial for trade, particularly in the shipping industry, where cargo weights needed a standardized unit for pricing and transport calculations.
Etymology: The term 'ton' derives from the Old French word 'tonne', which means a large cask or barrel, used for measuring wine and other liquids. The weight connotation developed as larger containers were filled with heavier goods.
Current Use
The short ton is widely used in the United States for various applications, including shipping, construction, and agriculture. It serves as a crucial unit for expressing weight in commercial transactions, especially in the transport of bulk materials like coal, grain, and heavy machinery.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The short ton is primarily used in the United States, while other countries may use the long ton or metric ton.
- •In the shipping industry, freight costs are often calculated based on weight in short tons.
- •A short ton is equivalent to approximately 907.185 kilograms, making it slightly less than a metric ton.
📏 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.