Kilogram Converter
Convert Kilogram to Pennyweight 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.
Pennyweightdwt
Target UnitA pennyweight, abbreviated as dwt, is a unit of mass commonly used in the precious metals market. It is defined as exactly 1/20 of a troy ounce, which is approximately 1.55517 grams. This unit is primarily used in the weighing of gold, silver, and gemstones. The use of pennyweights allows for precise measurements in jewelry making and trade. The term 'pennyweight' is derived from the weight of a penny of the old English currency, emphasizing its historical significance in trade and commerce.
Current Use
Today, the pennyweight is primarily used in the jewelry industry, where it is employed to measure the weight of precious metals and gemstones. Jewelers and appraisers use this unit to establish the value of items based on their weight in pennyweights, especially for gold and silver. In the United States and some other countries, pennyweights are still widely accepted in trade, particularly for items like rings and necklaces, where weight plays a crucial role in determining price.
Fun Fact
The pennyweight is often used in legal contexts for weighing precious metals in court cases.
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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
Pennyweight
weight • Non-SI
Definition
A pennyweight, abbreviated as dwt, is a unit of mass commonly used in the precious metals market. It is defined as exactly 1/20 of a troy ounce, which is approximately 1.55517 grams. This unit is primarily used in the weighing of gold, silver, and gemstones. The use of pennyweights allows for precise measurements in jewelry making and trade. The term 'pennyweight' is derived from the weight of a penny of the old English currency, emphasizing its historical significance in trade and commerce.
History & Origin
The pennyweight originated in the medieval period, when it was used as a measure of weight for currency, specifically the English penny. It became standardized as part of the troy weight system, which was adopted in the 14th century for trading precious metals. The troy pound was divided into 12 troy ounces, and each troy ounce was further divided into 20 pennyweights. This system was widely used in Europe and has persisted into modern times, particularly in the jewelry and precious metals industries.
Etymology: The term 'pennyweight' comes from the Old English word 'pening', meaning penny, and 'weight', signifying the measure of mass associated with that coin.
Current Use
Today, the pennyweight is primarily used in the jewelry industry, where it is employed to measure the weight of precious metals and gemstones. Jewelers and appraisers use this unit to establish the value of items based on their weight in pennyweights, especially for gold and silver. In the United States and some other countries, pennyweights are still widely accepted in trade, particularly for items like rings and necklaces, where weight plays a crucial role in determining price.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The pennyweight is often used in legal contexts for weighing precious metals in court cases.
- •Historically, the pennyweight was used not only for precious metals but also for weighing spices and other valuable commodities.
- •The system of troy weights, including the pennyweight, is believed to have originated from Roman trade practices.
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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.