Kilogram Converter
Convert Kilogram to Ton Long 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.
Long Tonlt
Target UnitThe long ton, also known as the imperial ton, is a unit of weight equal to 1,016 kilograms or 2,240 pounds. It is primarily used in the United Kingdom and is part of the imperial system of measurements. The long ton is often used in industries that require the specification of heavy weights, such as shipping and freight transport. It is important to note that the long ton differs from the short ton (used mainly in the US), which is equivalent to 907.185 kilograms. The long ton is also sometimes referred to as a gross ton, particularly in maritime contexts.
Current Use
Today, the long ton is primarily used in the United Kingdom and some Commonwealth countries. It is common in industries such as shipping, where cargo weights are often expressed in long tons. The long ton remains a relevant unit for specifying the weight of large shipments, vehicles, and materials. In the maritime industry, it is also used to measure the gross tonnage of ships, indicating their cargo capacity.
Fun Fact
The long ton is sometimes referred to as the 'imperial ton' to distinguish it from the short 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.
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Long Ton
weight • Non-SI
Definition
The long ton, also known as the imperial ton, is a unit of weight equal to 1,016 kilograms or 2,240 pounds. It is primarily used in the United Kingdom and is part of the imperial system of measurements. The long ton is often used in industries that require the specification of heavy weights, such as shipping and freight transport. It is important to note that the long ton differs from the short ton (used mainly in the US), which is equivalent to 907.185 kilograms. The long ton is also sometimes referred to as a gross ton, particularly in maritime contexts.
History & Origin
The long ton has its roots in the British imperial system, which was formalized in the 19th century. Its usage became widespread as a standard measure for heavy weights in shipping and industry. The long ton was defined as 1,016 kilograms by the Weights and Measures Act of 1963 in the UK, which aimed to standardize measurements across the country. This law was part of a broader movement to modernize the British measurement system during the metrication process.
Etymology: The term 'ton' is derived from the Old French 'tonneu', which referred to a large cask or barrel used for transporting goods, especially wine. The term has evolved over time to represent different units of weight.
Current Use
Today, the long ton is primarily used in the United Kingdom and some Commonwealth countries. It is common in industries such as shipping, where cargo weights are often expressed in long tons. The long ton remains a relevant unit for specifying the weight of large shipments, vehicles, and materials. In the maritime industry, it is also used to measure the gross tonnage of ships, indicating their cargo capacity.
💡 Fun Facts
- •The long ton is sometimes referred to as the 'imperial ton' to distinguish it from the short ton.
- •The long ton was historically used in the UK for tax purposes related to shipping.
- •In maritime law, a long ton is often used to determine the tonnage of ships for registration and taxation.
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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.