Kilogram Converter
Convert Kilogram to Scruple Apothecary 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.
Scruple (Apothecary)s
Target UnitThe scruple is a historical unit of mass used in the apothecary system, which is a traditional system of weight used by pharmacists and in medicine. It is defined as being equivalent to 20 grains, or approximately 1.296 grams. The scruple was historically used to measure medicinal substances and has its roots in ancient Rome, where it was used as a measure for weighing precious metals, herbs, and potions. Although largely replaced by the metric system, the scruple remains relevant in specific contexts, particularly in herbalism and traditional medicine.
Current Use
Today, the scruple is primarily of historical interest, but it is still used in some contexts related to herbalism and traditional medicine. Some practitioners of alternative medicine and herbalists may refer to the scruple when discussing dosages for medicinal herbs and tinctures. It is also occasionally mentioned in historical texts and pharmacological references. While the scruple is not commonly used in modern pharmacy, understanding its significance can provide insights into the evolution of medicinal measurement.
Fun Fact
The scruple was once used to weigh precious metals, especially gold and silver.
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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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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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Scruple (Apothecary)
weight • Non-SI
Definition
The scruple is a historical unit of mass used in the apothecary system, which is a traditional system of weight used by pharmacists and in medicine. It is defined as being equivalent to 20 grains, or approximately 1.296 grams. The scruple was historically used to measure medicinal substances and has its roots in ancient Rome, where it was used as a measure for weighing precious metals, herbs, and potions. Although largely replaced by the metric system, the scruple remains relevant in specific contexts, particularly in herbalism and traditional medicine.
History & Origin
The scruple's origins can be traced back to Roman times, where it was derived from the Latin word 'scrupulus', which referred to a small stone or pebble used in weighing. Initially, the scruple was used to describe the weight of a small item and evolved into a measurement system for pharmacists and physicians who needed precise measurements of medicinal substances. Throughout the centuries, this unit became formalized within the apothecary system, which was widely used until the adoption of the metric system in the 19th century.
Etymology: The term 'scruple' comes from the Latin 'scrupulus', meaning 'a small stone', reflecting its use in weighing and measurement.
Current Use
Today, the scruple is primarily of historical interest, but it is still used in some contexts related to herbalism and traditional medicine. Some practitioners of alternative medicine and herbalists may refer to the scruple when discussing dosages for medicinal herbs and tinctures. It is also occasionally mentioned in historical texts and pharmacological references. While the scruple is not commonly used in modern pharmacy, understanding its significance can provide insights into the evolution of medicinal measurement.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The scruple was once used to weigh precious metals, especially gold and silver.
- •In the apothecary system, there are 3 scruples in a dram and 8 drams in an ounce.
- •The scruple was also used in legal contexts to determine fines based on the weight of gold and silver.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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