Kilogram Converter
Convert Kilogram to Atomic Mass Unit 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.
Atomic Mass Unitamu
Target UnitThe atomic mass unit (amu), also known as dalton (Da), is a standard unit of mass that quantifies mass on an atomic or molecular scale. It is defined as one twelfth of the mass of an unbound neutral atom of carbon-12 in its nuclear and electronic ground state. The atomic mass unit is crucial in chemistry and physics for calculating the mass of atoms and molecules, allowing for easier comparison of mass across different elements. The standard conversion is approximately 1 amu = 1.66053906660 x 10^-27 kg.
Current Use
The atomic mass unit is widely used in fields such as chemistry, physics, and biochemistry for expressing the masses of atoms and molecules. It simplifies the comparison of atomic-scale masses and is essential in calculating molecular weights, stoichiometry in chemical reactions, and understanding isotopic compositions. Researchers and educators frequently reference amu in scientific literature and educational materials.
Fun Fact
The atomic mass unit is sometimes referred to as the dalton, named after John Dalton, who developed early atomic theory.
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
Atomic Mass Unit
weight • Non-SI
Definition
The atomic mass unit (amu), also known as dalton (Da), is a standard unit of mass that quantifies mass on an atomic or molecular scale. It is defined as one twelfth of the mass of an unbound neutral atom of carbon-12 in its nuclear and electronic ground state. The atomic mass unit is crucial in chemistry and physics for calculating the mass of atoms and molecules, allowing for easier comparison of mass across different elements. The standard conversion is approximately 1 amu = 1.66053906660 x 10^-27 kg.
History & Origin
The concept of atomic mass units dates back to the late 19th century when scientists began to quantify the mass of atoms. The atomic weight scale was established by John Dalton, who proposed that atoms of different elements have different weights. In 1961, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) officially adopted the atomic mass unit based on carbon-12, standardizing it for global scientific communication.
Etymology: The term 'atomic mass unit' derives from the Latin word 'atomus,' meaning indivisible, and the Greek word 'masse,' which refers to weight or mass.
Current Use
The atomic mass unit is widely used in fields such as chemistry, physics, and biochemistry for expressing the masses of atoms and molecules. It simplifies the comparison of atomic-scale masses and is essential in calculating molecular weights, stoichiometry in chemical reactions, and understanding isotopic compositions. Researchers and educators frequently reference amu in scientific literature and educational materials.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The atomic mass unit is sometimes referred to as the dalton, named after John Dalton, who developed early atomic theory.
- •Isotopes of the same element can have different atomic masses due to varying numbers of neutrons, which are accounted for in amu.
- •The amu is so small that it is often expressed in scientific notation, highlighting the scale of atomic and molecular measurements.
📏 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.