Dram to Kilogram Converter
Convert drams to kilograms with our free online weight converter.
Quick Answer
1 Dram = 0.001772 kilograms
Formula: Dram × conversion factor = Kilogram
Use the calculator below for instant, accurate conversions.
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All conversion formulas on UnitsConverter.io have been verified against NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) guidelines and international SI standards. Our calculations are accurate to 10 decimal places for standard conversions and use arbitrary precision arithmetic for astronomical units.
Dram to Kilogram Calculator
How to Use the Dram to Kilogram Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Dram).
- The converted value in Kilogram will appear automatically in the 'To' field.
- Use the dropdown menus to select different units within the Weight category.
- Click the swap button (⇌) to reverse the conversion direction.
How to Convert Dram to Kilogram: Step-by-Step Guide
Converting Dram to Kilogram involves multiplying the value by a specific conversion factor, as shown in the formula below.
Formula:
1 Dram = 0.00177185 kilogramsExample Calculation:
Convert 5 drams: 5 × 0.00177185 = 0.00885925 kilograms
Disclaimer: For Reference Only
These conversion results are provided for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the precision of these results, especially for conversions involving extremely large or small numbers which may be subject to the inherent limitations of standard computer floating-point arithmetic.
Not for professional use. Results should be verified before use in any critical application. View our Terms of Service for more information.
Need to convert to other weight units?
View all Weight conversions →What is a Dram and a Kilogram?
Avoirdupois Dram (Commercial)
The avoirdupois dram is defined in the common weight system used for most goods:
Relationships:
- 1 dram = 1/16 ounce (avoirdupois)
- 1 dram = 1/256 pound (avoirdupois)
- 1 dram = 27.34375 grains (exactly)
- 1 dram ≈ 1.7718451953125 grams (exactly)
Symbol: dr, dr av, or dr avdp
Historical use: General commerce, precious materials, spices, ammunition powder charges.
Apothecary/Troy Dram (Pharmaceutical)
The apothecary dram (also called drachm) belongs to the apothecaries' weight system used historically in pharmacy:
Relationships:
- 1 dram (ʒ) = 1/8 ounce (apothecary)
- 1 dram = 3 scruples
- 1 dram = 60 grains (exactly)
- 1 dram ≈ 3.8879346 grams (exactly)
Symbol: ʒ (resembles the number 3, representing 3 scruples)
Historical use: Compounding medicines, pharmaceutical measurements, medical prescriptions.
The Critical Difference
Apothecary dram = 2.194 × Avoirdupois dram
This 2.2× ratio causes confusion. Historical recipes and medical texts must specify which system they use, or dosages could be dangerously incorrect.
Fluid Dram (Volume, Not Weight)
Adding to the confusion, the fluid dram is a unit of volume:
Fluid dram (imperial):
- 1/8 fluid ounce (imperial)
- ≈ 3.5516 mL
Fluid dram (US):
- 1/8 fluid ounce (US)
- ≈ 3.6967 mL
Symbol: fl dr, fl ʒ, or ℈
This is completely separate from weight drams, though historically related (1 fluid dram of water weighs approximately 1 avoirdupois dram).
The kilogram (symbol: kg) is the base unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI). It is one of the seven SI base units and forms the foundation for measuring mass and weight in the metric system.
Modern Definition (2019): The kilogram is defined by fixing the numerical value of the Planck constant (h) to be exactly 6.62607015×10⁻³⁴ joule-seconds (J⋅s). This definition, adopted on May 20, 2019 (World Metrology Day), replaced the previous definition based on a physical artifact.
Key relationships:
- 1 kilogram = 1,000 grams (g)
- 1 kilogram = 1,000,000 milligrams (mg)
- 1 kilogram = 0.001 metric tons (tonnes)
- 1,000 kilograms = 1 metric ton
In terms of imperial/US customary units:
- 1 kilogram ≈ 2.20462 pounds (lb) - Convert kg to lb
- 1 kilogram ≈ 35.274 ounces (oz) - Convert kg to oz
- 1 kilogram ≈ 0.157 stones (st) - Convert kg to stones
Visual perspective (how heavy is it?):
- 1 kg ≈ Liter bottle of water
- 1 kg ≈ Small laptop or tablet
- 1 kg ≈ Bag of sugar
- 1 kg ≈ Two pineapples
- 5 kg ≈ Newborn baby
- 10 kg ≈ Small dog or cat
Important distinction: While "mass" and "weight" are scientifically different (mass is the amount of matter, weight is gravitational force), in everyday usage, kilograms measure what we commonly call "weight."
Convert between weight units: kilogram converter
Note: The Dram is part of the imperial/US customary system, primarily used in the US, UK, and Canada for everyday measurements. The Kilogram belongs to the metric (SI) system.
History of the Dram and Kilogram
Ancient Greek Drachma (600 BCE - 300 CE)
The drachma coin: Greek city-states minted silver coins called drachmas, weighing approximately 4.3 grams (varying by region and period).
Origin of name: "Drachma" (δραχμή) derives from "drax" (handful) or "drassomai" (to grasp), possibly referring to a handful of six obol coins.
Weight standard: The Attic drachma (Athens) weighed about 4.3 g of silver, becoming a widespread weight and monetary standard.
Roman Adoption (300 BCE - 500 CE)
Drachma in Roman medicine: Roman physicians adopted Greek medical practices, including pharmaceutical measurements based on the drachma.
Galen's formulations: The physician Galen (129-216 CE) used drachmas extensively in medicinal recipes, establishing the unit in medical tradition.
Byzantine and Islamic Medicine (500-1200 CE)
Byzantine continuation: The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) preserved Greek medical texts, maintaining the drachm as a pharmaceutical unit.
Islamic Golden Age: Arab physicians (Al-Razi, Avicenna) translated Greek medical works, incorporating drachms into Arabic pharmacy. The dirham (Arabic coin) shares the same etymological root.
Transmission to Europe: Through Islamic Spain and Sicily, Arabic medical knowledge returned to Western Europe (11th-13th centuries), bringing pharmaceutical drachm measurements.
Medieval European Apothecaries (1200-1600)
Apothecary guilds: European cities established apothecary guilds, standardizing medicinal weights based on the drachm.
The apothecary system:
- 1 pound (lb ap) = 12 ounces
- 1 ounce (℥) = 8 drams (ʒ)
- 1 dram = 3 scruples (℈)
- 1 scruple = 20 grains (gr)
Result: 1 apothecary dram = 60 grains
Symbol evolution: The symbol ʒ (scribal abbreviation for Latin "drachma") became standard for the dram.
British Standardization (1600-1800)
London Pharmacopoeia (1618): The first official British pharmacopoeia standardized apothecary weights, including the dram at 60 grains.
Avoirdupois emergence: Simultaneously, the avoirdupois system developed for general commerce, creating a different dram:
- Avoirdupois dram = 1/16 ounce = 27.34375 grains
Coexistence: Two dram standards coexisted—apothecary for medicine, avoirdupois for trade.
American Adoption (1776-1900)
U.S. Pharmacopeia (1820): The first U.S. Pharmacopeia codified pharmaceutical measurements, adopting British apothecary standards including the dram.
Medical education: American medical schools taught apothecary measurements. Physicians wrote prescriptions using symbols like ʒ for drams.
Commercial use: Avoirdupois drams measured gunpowder, spices, precious materials, and other commodities.
Ammunition Application (1800s-Present)
Black powder charges: Early firearms used black powder measured in drams. A "3-dram load" meant 3 avoirdupois drams of powder.
Dram equivalent: With the transition to smokeless powder (1880s onward), manufacturers created "dram equivalent" ratings—the amount of smokeless powder producing the same velocity as a given dram measure of black powder.
Modern shotshells: Today's shotgun shells still reference "3 dram equivalent" or "3¼ dram equivalent" on the box, though actual powder weights are in grains or grams.
Metrication and Decline (1900-Present)
British pharmacy (1970): The UK officially abandoned apothecary weights, switching entirely to metric (grams, milligrams).
American pharmacy (1970s-1980s): U.S. pharmacy schools phased out apothecary measurements, adopting metric. By 1990, nearly all prescriptions used metric units.
Persistence:
- Ammunition: Dram equivalent ratings continue
- Historical recipes: Antique cookbooks and medical texts
- Collectors: Antique apothecary scales and weights
-
French Revolution Origins (1795): During the development of the metric system, French scientists defined the "grave" (later renamed kilogram) as the mass of one cubic decimeter (liter) of pure water at 4°C (its maximum density). This provided a definition based on nature rather than arbitrary standards.
-
Kilogram des Archives (1799): The first physical standard was created - a platinum cylinder kept in the French National Archives in Paris. This "Kilogram of the Archives" served as France's official kilogram standard.
-
Treaty of the Metre (1875): Seventeen nations signed this international treaty, establishing global cooperation on measurement standards. This set the stage for creating an international kilogram prototype.
-
International Prototype Kilogram - Le Grand K (1889): A precisely machined platinum-iridium (90% platinum, 10% iridium) cylinder was created and designated as the international standard. This cylinder, known as "Le Grand K" or the IPK, was:
- 39 millimeters in both height and diameter
- Stored under three nested bell jars at the BIPM in Sèvres, France
- The only SI unit still defined by a physical artifact (until 2019)
- Accessed only rarely for calibration purposes
-
The Problem with Le Grand K: Over time, scientists discovered that the IPK's mass was changing relative to its copies - by approximately 50 micrograms over a century. This was problematic because:
- The kilogram was drifting from its official definition
- No way to verify if the prototype was gaining or losing mass
- Physical objects can be damaged, contaminated, or lost
- Limited access meant difficult calibrations worldwide
-
Search for a New Definition (1990s-2010s): Scientists developed two approaches:
- Kibble Balance (formerly watt balance): Relates mass to electromagnetic force and the Planck constant
- Avogadro Project: Count atoms in a silicon sphere to define the kilogram
-
2019 Redefinition: On May 20, 2019 (World Metrology Day), the kilogram definition changed:
- Old: Mass of the International Prototype Kilogram
- New: Defined by fixing the Planck constant at exactly 6.62607015×10⁻³⁴ J⋅s
- This allows any properly equipped laboratory to reproduce the kilogram
- No longer depends on a physical object that could change or be damaged
-
Why the Planck Constant?: This quantum mechanical constant relates energy to frequency and appears in fundamental physics equations. By fixing its value, mass can be measured using electromagnetic force through a Kibble balance.
-
Global Impact: The kilogram is used by virtually every country worldwide. Even the United States, which uses pounds in daily life, uses kilograms extensively in:
- Scientific research
- International trade
- Medical dosing
- Manufacturing
- Athletics and sports
-
Historical Significance: The 2019 redefinition was the culmination of over a century of metrological advancement, representing humanity's shift from physical artifacts to universal physical constants.
Common Uses and Applications: drams vs kilograms
Explore the typical applications for both Dram (imperial/US) and Kilogram (metric) to understand their common contexts.
Common Uses for drams
1. Ammunition and Reloading
Shotshell ratings: Manufacturers mark shotgun shells with "dram equivalent" to indicate approximate velocity/power level.
Why still used? Tradition and familiarity. Shooters understand "3 dram load" means standard power, while "3¾ dram" is heavy magnum.
Reloading manuals: Some reloading data references dram equivalents alongside modern grain measurements.
2. Historical Recipe Interpretation
19th-century cookbooks: Recipes may call for "1 dram of nutmeg" or "2 drams of ginger."
Conversion challenge: Must determine if the recipe uses avoirdupois or apothecary drams (usually avoirdupois for cooking).
Modern equivalent: 1 avoirdupois dram ≈ 1.77 grams ≈ 1/3 teaspoon (for dry spices)
3. Antique Apothecary Items
Collectible scales: Antique apothecary scales often have dram weights marked with ʒ.
Medicine bottles: Historical pharmacy bottles may indicate contents in drams.
Historical research: Understanding drams is essential for interpreting 18th-19th century medical texts.
4. Pharmaceutical History
Old pharmacopoeias: Historical pharmaceutical formulas use apothecary drams.
Example prescription (1850s): "℞ Quinine sulfate ʒij" = Take 2 drams of quinine sulfate
Modern interpretation: 2 apothecary drams = 7.78 grams
When to Use kilograms
The kilogram is the universal standard for mass measurement across virtually all applications worldwide:
Science and Research
The fundamental unit for mass in all scientific disciplines. Essential for chemistry, physics, biology, medicine, and engineering research conducted globally.
Scientific Applications:
- Chemistry: Measuring reactants, products, and samples
- Physics: Mass calculations in mechanics and dynamics
- Biology: Specimen weights, culture media
- Medicine: Drug dosing, patient measurements
- Materials science: Sample preparation and analysis
- Environmental science: Pollution measurements, soil samples
Why kilograms in science:
- SI base unit (international standard)
- Decimal-based for easy calculations
- Defined by fundamental constant (Planck constant)
- Required for publication in scientific journals
- Universal reproducibility in any laboratory
Convert for scientific work: kilograms to other units
Healthcare and Medicine
Standard for patient weight, drug dosing, and medical calculations in hospitals and clinics worldwide. Critical for accurate treatment.
Medical uses:
- Patient weight: Baseline health measurement
- Drug dosing: Many medications dosed per kg body weight
- Pediatric care: Growth charts in kg and cm
- BMI calculation: Weight (kg) ÷ height² (m)
- Fluid management: IV fluids calculated by body weight
- Nutritional assessment: Protein needs, calorie requirements
- Medical research: Study participant measurements
Dosing examples:
- Pediatric antibiotics: 10-15 mg per kg body weight
- Anesthesia: Calculated per kg
- Chemotherapy: Often dosed per kg or body surface area
- Emergency medications: Weight-based dosing critical
Why critical in medicine:
- Precision prevents overdosing or underdosing
- International medical protocols use kg
- Pediatric safety depends on accurate weights
- Research requires standardized measurements
Food Industry and Nutrition
Standard unit for food packaging, recipes, nutritional labels, and commercial food sales in metric countries and international trade.
Food industry uses:
- Packaging labels: "Net weight: 1 kg"
- Commercial sales: Produce sold per kg
- Nutritional information: Values per 100g or serving
- Recipe scaling: Professional cooking in kg
- Food safety: Portion control, serving sizes
- Import/export: International food trade
- Restaurant supplies: Ingredients ordered in kg
Retail examples:
- Fruits and vegetables: Priced per kg
- Meat and fish: Sold by kg or portion
- Bulk foods: Rice, flour, nuts sold in kg bags
- Deli counters: Sliced meats weighed in kg
Shipping and Logistics
International standard for package weight, freight calculations, and postal rates. Essential for global commerce and transportation.
Shipping applications:
- Package weight limits: Carriers specify max kg
- Freight charges: Calculated per kg or dimensional weight
- Postal rates: Tiered by kg (0-2 kg, 2-5 kg, etc.)
- Air cargo: Charged per kg
- Container shipping: Weight limits in kg
- Customs declarations: Product weights in kg
- Warehouse inventory: Stock measured in kg
Standard limits:
- Small parcel: Up to 2 kg
- Standard parcel: 2-20 kg
- Heavy parcel: 20-30 kg
- Freight: 30+ kg
Why kg in shipping:
- International standard (UPU uses kg)
- Simplifies cross-border shipping
- Aviation industry uses kg
- Maritime shipping uses metric tons (1,000 kg)
Athletics and Sports
Standard for athlete weight classes, equipment specifications, and performance measurements in international competition.
Weight classes (examples):
- Boxing: Flyweight (< 51 kg), Welterweight (< 69 kg), Heavyweight (> 91 kg)
- Wrestling: Multiple classes from 57 kg to 125 kg
- Weightlifting: Classes from 55 kg to 109+ kg
- MMA: Featherweight (66 kg), Middleweight (84 kg), etc.
- Rowing: Lightweight (< 72.5 kg men, < 59 kg women)
- Judo: Multiple classes from 60 kg to 100+ kg
Equipment standards:
- Shot put: 7.26 kg (men), 4 kg (women)
- Discus: 2 kg (men), 1 kg (women)
- Javelin: 800 g (men), 600 g (women)
- Hammer throw: 7.26 kg (men), 4 kg (women)
Performance metrics:
- Clean and jerk records (kg lifted)
- Total weight lifted in competitions
- Body composition tracking
Manufacturing and Industry
Critical for quality control, material specifications, and product development. Enables consistent production and international standards.
Manufacturing uses:
- Raw materials: Ordered and inventoried in kg
- Product specifications: Component weights in kg or grams
- Quality control: Weight tolerance checking
- Batch production: Recipe scaling by kg
- Packaging: Box and pallet weights
- Shipping calculations: Product + packaging weight
- Waste management: Scrap material measured in kg
Industries:
- Automotive: Vehicle weight specifications
- Aerospace: Critical weight calculations
- Pharmaceuticals: Active ingredient quantities
- Chemicals: Formulation by weight
- Textiles: Fabric weight per square meter (GSM)
Agriculture and Farming
Standard for crop yields, animal weights, feed quantities, and agricultural commodities worldwide.
Agricultural uses:
- Crop yields: Tons per hectare (1,000 kg = 1 ton)
- Livestock weights: Animal growth tracking
- Feed calculations: Feed ratios per kg body weight
- Fertilizer application: kg per hectare
- Produce sales: Market prices per kg
- Seed quantities: Planting rates in kg/hectare
- Harvest records: Total yield in kg or tons
Example yields:
- Wheat: 3,000-8,000 kg/hectare
- Corn: 5,000-12,000 kg/hectare
- Rice: 4,000-10,000 kg/hectare
Everyday Life (Metric Countries)
Daily measurements for body weight, shopping, cooking, and general household use in 95% of the world's countries.
Personal use:
- Body weight tracking (bathroom scale)
- Grocery shopping (price per kg)
- Cooking and baking (recipe measurements)
- Luggage weight (travel)
- Baby weight monitoring (growth charts)
- Fitness tracking (weight loss/gain goals)
- Pet weight (veterinary care)
Use our kilogram converter for everyday conversions.
Additional Unit Information
About Dram (dr)
How many drams are in an ounce (avoirdupois)?
Exactly 16 avoirdupois drams = 1 avoirdupois ounce.
This is the definition:
- 1 oz av = 16 dr av
- 1 dr av = 1/16 oz av = 0.0625 oz
How many grams are in a dram (avoirdupois)?
1 avoirdupois dram = 1.7718451953125 grams (exactly).
Practical approximation: 1 dr av ≈ 1.77 g
Derivation: 1 pound av = 453.59237 grams (exact) 1 pound = 256 drams 1 dram = 453.59237 ÷ 256 = 1.77185 g
Is a dram a unit of mass or volume?
Both exist, which causes significant confusion:
Mass (weight):
- Avoirdupois dram (dr): 1.772 g
- Apothecary dram (ʒ): 3.888 g
Volume:
- Fluid dram (fl dr, US): 3.697 mL
- Fluid dram (fl dr, imperial): 3.552 mL
Context matters:
- Pharmacy/medicine historically: could be either (check symbols)
- General commerce: usually weight
- Modern usage: rare except ammunition (weight-related rating)
What's the difference between avoirdupois and apothecary drams?
Avoirdupois dram (commercial):
- 1/16 ounce avoirdupois
- 27.34375 grains
- 1.772 grams
- Used for general goods
Apothecary dram (pharmaceutical):
- 1/8 ounce apothecary
- 60 grains
- 3.888 grams
- Used for medicines
Key difference: Apothecary dram is 2.19× heavier than avoirdupois dram.
What does the symbol ʒ mean?
The symbol ʒ represents the apothecary dram.
Origin: Scribal abbreviation of Latin "drachma" or "dragma."
Appearance: Resembles a fancy number "3," which is appropriate since 1 dram = 3 scruples.
Usage: Historical pharmaceutical prescriptions: "℞ Morphine ʒi" = Take 1 dram of morphine
What is a dram equivalent in ammunition?
"Dram equivalent" is a velocity/power rating for shotgun shells, not actual powder weight.
Historical context: Black powder shotgun loads used actual drams of powder (e.g., "3 drams of black powder").
Modern meaning: A "3 dram equivalent" smokeless powder load produces approximately the same muzzle velocity as a historical 3-dram black powder load.
Actual powder weight: Modern "3 dram equivalent" loads typically contain 18-22 grains of smokeless powder (less than 1 actual dram by weight).
Rating scale:
- 2¾ dram eq: Light/target
- 3 dram eq: Standard
- 3¼ dram eq: Magnum
- 3¾ - 4 dram eq: Heavy magnum
Do doctors still use drams?
No, modern medicine uses metric units exclusively.
Historical use: 19th and early 20th century physicians wrote prescriptions using apothecary measurements including drams (ʒ).
Transition:
- UK: Abandoned apothecary units in 1970
- US: Phased out 1970s-1990s
Current practice: All modern prescriptions use milligrams (mg), grams (g), and milliliters (mL). Drams are historical artifacts.
How do I convert historical dram measurements?
Step 1: Identify the system
- Pharmacy/medicine: Likely apothecary dram (3.888 g)
- Cooking/commerce: Likely avoirdupois dram (1.772 g)
Step 2: Check for symbols
- ʒ symbol: Definitely apothecary
- "dr" or no symbol: Context-dependent (probably avoirdupois for cooking)
Step 3: Convert to grams
- Avoirdupois: drams × 1.772
- Apothecary: drams × 3.888
Step 4: Convert to modern measure
- Grams to teaspoons (dry ingredients): ~5 g per tsp
- Grams to milliliters (liquids): depends on density
Can I still buy dram weights?
Yes, as antique collectibles, but not for practical use.
Antique apothecary weights: Available from antique dealers, often brass or bronze, marked with ʒ symbol.
Modern equivalents: Not manufactured. Use gram scales instead.
Collectible value: Complete sets of 18th-19th century apothecary weights command $100-500+ depending on condition.
Why did pharmacy abandon drams?
Multiple reasons drove metrication:
1. International standardization: Metric system adopted globally for science and medicine.
2. Safety: Multiple dram systems (avoirdupois vs. apothecary) created dangerous confusion.
3. Ease of calculation: Decimal metric system simpler than fractional apothecary system.
4. Precision: Milligrams allow more precise dosing than grains/scruples/drams.
Result: By 1990, virtually all pharmacy worldwide used metric exclusively.
About Kilogram (kg)
How much is 1 kilogram visually?
One kilogram is about the weight of a liter bottle of water or a small laptop.
Visual comparisons:
- 1 liter of water: Exactly 1 kg (at 4°C)
- Bag of sugar: Typically 1 kg or 2 kg
- Small laptop: 1-1.5 kg
- Two pineapples: About 1 kg total
- Medium-sized book: Approximately 1 kg
- Loaf of bread: About 0.5-0.8 kg (1 kg for larger loaves)
Body reference:
- For most people, 1 kg is slightly heavier than can be easily held in one hand for extended periods
- About 2-3% of average adult body weight
To remember: Picture a standard milk or water bottle (1 liter) - that's 1 kilogram.
How many pounds are in a kilogram?
One kilogram equals approximately 2.20462 pounds, commonly rounded to 2.2 pounds.
Exact conversion: 1 kilogram = 2.204622622 pounds
Practical conversions:
- 1 kg ≈ 2.2 lb
- 5 kg ≈ 11 lb
- 10 kg ≈ 22 lb
- 50 kg ≈ 110 lb
- 70 kg ≈ 154 lb
- 100 kg ≈ 220 lb
Reverse conversion (pounds to kilograms):
- 1 pound = 0.453592 kg (about 0.45 kg)
- 10 pounds ≈ 4.5 kg
- 100 pounds ≈ 45.4 kg
- 150 pounds ≈ 68 kg
- 200 pounds ≈ 90.7 kg
Quick mental math:
- Multiply kg by 2 and add 10% for rough estimate
- Example: 50 kg × 2 = 100, + 10% = 110 lb
Use our kg to pounds converter for accurate conversions.
What is the difference between kilogram and gram?
Kilogram (kg) is 1,000 times larger than gram (g).
The relationship:
- 1 kilogram = 1,000 grams
- 1 gram = 0.001 kilograms (or 1/1,000 kg)
Conversion:
- To convert kg to g: multiply by 1,000
- To convert g to kg: divide by 1,000
When to use which:
Use grams (g) for:
- Small quantities (< 1 kg)
- Food ingredients (200g flour, 500g meat)
- Precious metals (gold, silver by the gram)
- Medications (pills in mg or g)
- Postal items under 1 kg
Use kilograms (kg) for:
- Body weight
- Larger food packages
- Most everyday objects
- Shipping packages
- Sports equipment
Examples:
- Smartphone: 200 grams = 0.2 kg
- Laptop: 1,500 grams = 1.5 kg
- Bag of rice: 5,000 grams = 5 kg
- Person: 70,000 grams = 70 kg
Convert: kg to grams | grams to kg
Is the kilogram used in the United States?
Yes and no - it depends on the context.
Where kilograms ARE used in the US:
- Science and research: All scientific work
- Medicine: Drug dosing, patient weights in hospitals
- Manufacturing: Especially export products
- Athletics: Olympic sports, international competition
- Import/export: International trade
- Automotive: Vehicle specifications (increasingly)
- Pharmaceuticals: All measurements
- Military: NATO standardization
Where kilograms are NOT commonly used:
- Grocery stores (pounds, not kg)
- Body weight (people say pounds)
- Cooking (recipes use cups, ounces)
- Bathroom scales (typically show pounds)
- Everyday conversation
- Food packaging (labeled in oz, lb)
The dual system:
- US products often show both: "1 lb (454g)" or "Net Wt 16 oz (1 lb) 453g"
- Scientific calculators and medical equipment use kg
- US is officially metric but hasn't converted fully
Fun fact: US currency is metric (100 cents = 1 dollar), but few Americans realize this!
How many grams are in a kilogram?
There are exactly 1,000 grams (g) in one kilogram.
Why 1,000?: The prefix "kilo-" means 1,000.
Conversion:
- 1 kilogram (kg) = 1,000 grams (g)
- To convert kg to g: multiply by 1,000
- To convert g to kg: divide by 1,000
Examples:
- 0.5 kg = 500 grams
- 1.5 kg = 1,500 grams
- 2.75 kg = 2,750 grams
- 5 kg = 5,000 grams
- 10 kg = 10,000 grams
Remember: Move the decimal point three places:
- Kg → g: Move right (1.5 kg = 1,500 g)
- G → kg: Move left (1,500 g = 1.5 kg)
Common weights:
- Smartphone: 150-250 g = 0.15-0.25 kg
- Bag of sugar: 1,000 g = 1 kg
- Newborn baby: 3,000-4,000 g = 3-4 kg
Use our kg to grams converter for instant conversions.
How is the kilogram defined today?
Current Definition (since May 20, 2019): The kilogram is defined by fixing the numerical value of the Planck constant at exactly 6.62607015×10⁻³⁴ joule-seconds (J⋅s).
What this means:
- No longer based on a physical object (the old platinum-iridium cylinder)
- Based on a fundamental constant of quantum mechanics
- Can be reproduced in any properly equipped laboratory worldwide
- Uses a device called a "Kibble balance" (formerly watt balance)
- Incredibly stable and will never change
Why this definition?:
- Universal: The Planck constant is the same everywhere in the universe
- Reproducible: Any lab with the right equipment can measure it
- Permanent: Physical objects degrade; constants don't
- Precise: More accurate than artifact-based definition
How it works: A Kibble balance measures mass by balancing it against electromagnetic force. By fixing the Planck constant, the electromagnetic force precisely defines mass.
Historical evolution:
- 1795: Mass of 1 liter of water
- 1889: Physical prototype (Le Grand K)
- 2019: Planck constant (current definition)
Why it matters: This was the last SI base unit to be redefined based on fundamental constants, completing the modernization of the metric system.
What does "kg" stand for?
"kg" is the symbol for kilogram.
Breaking it down:
- kilo-: Greek prefix meaning 1,000
- gram: Base unit of mass in the metric system
- kilogram: Literally "1,000 grams"
Symbol rules:
- Always lowercase "k" (not "Kg" or "KG")
- Lowercase "g"
- No period after "kg"
- Space between number and symbol: "5 kg" (not "5kg")
Other kilo- units:
- kilometer (km) = 1,000 meters
- kilowatt (kW) = 1,000 watts
- kilojoule (kJ) = 1,000 joules
- kilobyte (kB or KB) = 1,000 bytes
Interesting fact: The kilogram is unique among SI base units because it already contains a prefix ("kilo-"). The base unit is actually the gram, but kilogram is the official SI base unit for mass.
How do you convert kilograms to ounces?
To convert kilograms to ounces, multiply by approximately 35.274.
Conversion formula: ounces = kilograms × 35.274
Examples:
- 1 kg = 35.3 ounces
- 0.5 kg = 17.6 ounces
- 2 kg = 70.5 ounces
- 5 kg = 176.4 ounces
- 10 kg = 352.7 ounces
Reverse conversion (ounces to kilograms):
- 1 ounce = 0.0283495 kg (about 28.35 grams)
- 16 ounces (1 pound) = 0.4536 kg
- 32 ounces = 0.907 kg
- 100 ounces = 2.835 kg
Why 35.274?
- 1 kg = 2.20462 pounds
- 1 pound = 16 ounces
- 2.20462 × 16 = 35.274 ounces per kilogram
Quick mental math:
- 1 kg ≈ 35 oz (close enough for estimates)
- 0.5 kg ≈ 18 oz (just over 1 pound)
Use our kg to ounces converter for precise conversions.
What is 70 kg in pounds?
70 kilograms = 154.32 pounds (commonly rounded to 154 pounds).
Calculation: 70 kg × 2.20462 lb/kg = 154.32 lb
Context:
- Average adult: 70 kg is a typical weight for an average-height adult
- Healthy weight: For a 5'10" (178 cm) person, 70 kg is within healthy range
- Athletes: Many athletes in various sports weigh around 70 kg
Nearby conversions:
- 65 kg = 143 lb
- 70 kg = 154 lb
- 75 kg = 165 lb
- 80 kg = 176 lb
Body weight ranges (approximate):
- 50 kg = 110 lb (petite adult)
- 60 kg = 132 lb (average woman)
- 70 kg = 154 lb (average man)
- 80 kg = 176 lb (athletic/large build)
- 90 kg = 198 lb (large adult)
- 100 kg = 220 lb (very large adult)
Convert any weight: kg to pounds converter
How much does a kilogram weigh on Earth?
On Earth, 1 kilogram has a weight of approximately 9.8 newtons (N) at sea level.
Important distinction:
- Mass: 1 kilogram (constant everywhere)
- Weight: Force due to gravity = mass × gravitational acceleration
- On Earth: Weight (N) = 1 kg × 9.8 m/s² = 9.8 N
What this means:
- Your mass stays 1 kg everywhere
- Your weight changes based on gravitational strength
- On Earth, we feel this as "weight"
Weight on other celestial bodies (for 1 kg mass):
- Moon: 1.6 N (about 1/6 of Earth)
- Mars: 3.7 N (about 3/8 of Earth)
- Jupiter: 24.8 N (about 2.5× Earth)
- Sun: 274 N (about 28× Earth)
- International Space Station: ~8.7 N (microgravity, but not zero)
Why we say "weight in kilograms": In everyday language, "weight" means mass. Technically incorrect, but universally understood. Scientists use "mass in kilograms" and "weight in newtons" for precision.
Remember: Your bathroom scale measures mass (kg), not weight (newtons), but we casually call it "weight."
What is a metric ton vs kilogram?
Metric ton (also called tonne) = 1,000 kilograms.
The relationship:
- 1 metric ton = 1,000 kg
- 1 kilogram = 0.001 metric tons
Symbols:
- Metric ton: t or MT or tonne
- Kilogram: kg
When to use which:
Use kilograms (kg) for:
- Individual weights (< 1,000 kg)
- Body weight, packages, products
- Most everyday measurements
Use metric tons (tonnes) for:
- Heavy vehicles (cars, trucks)
- Industrial materials
- Bulk commodities
- Cargo shipping
- Agricultural yields
Examples:
- Small car: 1,000-1,500 kg = 1-1.5 metric tons
- Elephant: 5,000 kg = 5 metric tons
- Shipping container: 20,000-30,000 kg = 20-30 metric tons
- Wheat harvest: 100,000 kg = 100 metric tons
Confusion alert:
- Metric ton (1,000 kg) ≠ US ton (2,000 lb = 907 kg)
- Metric ton (1,000 kg) ≠ UK ton (2,240 lb = 1,016 kg)
- Always specify which ton!
Convert: kg to metric tons | metric tons to kg
Conversion Table: Dram to Kilogram
| Dram (dr) | Kilogram (kg) |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0.001 |
| 1 | 0.002 |
| 1.5 | 0.003 |
| 2 | 0.004 |
| 5 | 0.009 |
| 10 | 0.018 |
| 25 | 0.044 |
| 50 | 0.089 |
| 100 | 0.177 |
| 250 | 0.443 |
| 500 | 0.886 |
| 1,000 | 1.772 |
People Also Ask
How do I convert Dram to Kilogram?
To convert Dram to Kilogram, enter the value in Dram in the calculator above. The conversion will happen automatically. Use our free online converter for instant and accurate results. You can also visit our weight converter page to convert between other units in this category.
Learn more →What is the conversion factor from Dram to Kilogram?
The conversion factor depends on the specific relationship between Dram and Kilogram. You can find the exact conversion formula and factor on this page. Our calculator handles all calculations automatically. See the conversion table above for common values.
Can I convert Kilogram back to Dram?
Yes! You can easily convert Kilogram back to Dram by using the swap button (⇌) in the calculator above, or by visiting our Kilogram to Dram converter page. You can also explore other weight conversions on our category page.
Learn more →What are common uses for Dram and Kilogram?
Dram and Kilogram are both standard units used in weight measurements. They are commonly used in various applications including engineering, construction, cooking, and scientific research. Browse our weight converter for more conversion options.
For more weight conversion questions, visit our FAQ page or explore our conversion guides.
Helpful Conversion Guides
Learn more about unit conversion with our comprehensive guides:
📚 How to Convert Units
Step-by-step guide to unit conversion with practical examples.
🔢 Conversion Formulas
Essential formulas for weight and other conversions.
⚖️ Metric vs Imperial
Understand the differences between measurement systems.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
Learn about frequent errors and how to avoid them.
All Weight Conversions
Other Weight Units and Conversions
Explore other weight units and their conversion options:
- Gram (g) • Dram to Gram
- Milligram (mg) • Dram to Milligram
- Pound (lb) • Dram to Pound
- Ounce (oz) • Dram to Ounce
- Stone (st) • Dram to Stone
- Ton (metric) (t) • Dram to Ton (metric)
- Ton (US) (ton) • Dram to Ton (US)
- Ton (UK) (long ton) • Dram to Ton (UK)
- Microgram (µg) • Dram to Microgram
- Carat (ct) • Dram to Carat
Verified Against Authority Standards
All conversion formulas have been verified against international standards and authoritative sources to ensure maximum accuracy and reliability.
National Institute of Standards and Technology — US standards for weight and mass measurements
International Organization for Standardization — International standard for mechanics quantities
Last verified: December 3, 2025