Microgram to Kilogram Converter
Convert micrograms to kilograms with our free online weight converter.
Quick Answer
1 Microgram = 1.000000e-9 kilograms
Formula: Microgram × 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.
Microgram to Kilogram Calculator
How to Use the Microgram to Kilogram Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Microgram).
- 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 Microgram to Kilogram: Step-by-Step Guide
Converting Microgram to Kilogram involves multiplying the value by a specific conversion factor, as shown in the formula below.
Formula:
1 Microgram = 1e-9 kilogramsExample Calculation:
Convert 5 micrograms: 5 × 1e-9 = 5e-9 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 Microgram and a Kilogram?
A microgram (symbol: µg or mcg) is a unit of mass in the metric system equal to one millionth (1/1,000,000) of a gram, or one thousandth (1/1,000) of a milligram.
Key relationships:
- 1 microgram = 0.000001 grams (g)
- 1 microgram = 0.001 milligrams (mg)
- 1,000 micrograms = 1 milligram
- 1,000,000 micrograms = 1 gram
- 1 microgram ≈ 0.0000000353 ounces
Symbol variations:
- µg: Standard scientific symbol (µ = Greek letter mu)
- mcg: Common in medicine/pharmacy (avoids confusion if µ looks like m)
- Both mean exactly the same thing
The prefix "micro-":
- From Greek "mikrós" meaning "small"
- SI prefix denoting 10⁻⁶ (one millionth)
- Also used in: micrometer (µm), microsecond (µs), microliter (µL)
In perspective (how small is it?):
- 1 grain of table salt ≈ 1,000 µg (1 mg)
- 1 speck of dust ≈ 1-10 µg
- Human red blood cell ≈ 100 µg
- A typical dose of Vitamin B12 ≈ 2.4 µg
⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: Never confuse µg (microgram) with mg (milligram). Taking 1 mg when prescribed 1 µg = 1,000x overdose! Always double-check labels and prescriptions.
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 Microgram is part of the metric (SI) system, primarily used globally in science and trade. The Kilogram belongs to the metric (SI) system.
History of the Microgram and Kilogram
-
Metric System Origins: The microgram is derived from the gram, a base unit in the early metric system defined in the late 18th century during the French Revolution (1790s).
-
Prefix Development: The prefix "micro-" (symbol: µ) was formalized in the late 19th century as part of the systematic development of metric prefixes to indicate a factor of 10⁻⁶ (one millionth).
-
Scientific Need: As analytical chemistry and biology advanced in the 19th and early 20th centuries, scientists needed to measure increasingly smaller masses - leading to widespread adoption of the microgram.
-
Pharmaceutical Revolution: The microgram became critically important in the 20th century with:
- Development of potent hormones (thyroid, insulin)
- Discovery of vitamins requiring trace amounts
- Creation of modern pharmaceuticals with precise dosing
- Antibiotics and specialized medications
-
Vitamin Discovery Era (1910s-1940s):
- Scientists discovered vitamins needed in microgram quantities
- Vitamin B12, biotin, folate measured in µg
- Nutrition labels began using micrograms
- Public health campaigns addressed micronutrient deficiencies
-
Symbol Standardization:
- µg adopted as standard scientific notation
- mcg introduced in medical settings to prevent confusion (µ can look like m if handwritten poorly)
- Both symbols officially recognized and equivalent
-
Modern Usage: Today, micrograms are essential in:
- Pharmaceutical dosing (especially endocrinology)
- Nutritional labeling (vitamins, minerals)
- Environmental monitoring (air/water quality)
- Toxicology and forensic science
- Analytical chemistry (trace analysis)
-
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: micrograms vs kilograms
Explore the typical applications for both Microgram (metric) and Kilogram (metric) to understand their common contexts.
Common Uses for micrograms
The microgram is essential for measuring extremely small quantities across multiple fields:
Medicine & Pharmaceuticals
Measuring dosages of potent medications and hormones where milligrams would be too large a unit. Critical for endocrinology, psychiatry, and specialized therapeutics.
Why micrograms matter:
- Potent drugs have narrow therapeutic windows
- Prevents overdose from rounding errors
- Allows fine-tuning of hormone replacement
- Essential for pediatric dosing
Common medications in µg:
- Thyroid hormones (25-200 µg)
- Birth control (15-35 µg estrogen)
- Vitamin B12 supplements (100-1,000 µg)
- Folic acid (400-800 µg)
- Digoxin (62.5-250 µg)
⚠️ Safety: Pharmacists use mcg (not µg) on prescriptions to prevent µ being misread as m.
Convert medication doses: µg to mg | mg to µg
Nutrition
Specifying amounts of trace minerals and vitamins in food, especially those needed in very small quantities but essential for health.
Nutrients measured in µg:
- Vitamin B12 (2.4 µg/day)
- Vitamin D (10-20 µg/day)
- Vitamin K (90-120 µg/day)
- Folate (400 µg/day)
- Selenium (55 µg/day)
- Biotin (30 µg/day)
Why µg for nutrition:
- Daily requirements are very small
- Prevents decimal errors (easier than 0.0024 g)
- International standard for supplement labeling
- Matches medical terminology
Food Fortification:
- Breakfast cereals: Fortified with µg amounts of B vitamins
- Milk: Vitamin D added in µg
- Salt: Iodine fortification (45-100 µg per gram of salt)
Chemistry & Biology
Quantifying trace amounts of substances in experiments, especially in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
Laboratory Applications:
- Sample preparation: Weighing µg of rare compounds
- Protein quantification: Bradford/BCA assays use µg protein
- DNA/RNA: Quantified in µg for PCR, sequencing
- HPLC/GC: Injection standards in µg amounts
- Mass spectrometry: Detection at µg to pg levels
Biochemical Standards:
- Enzyme activity: Units per µg protein
- Cell culture: Growth factors at 1-100 µg/mL
- Antibody concentration: Often µg/mL
Environmental Science
Measuring concentrations of pollutants or contaminants in air, water, and soil at parts-per-million (ppm) or parts-per-billion (ppb) levels.
Environmental Monitoring:
-
Air quality: µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter)
- PM2.5 particulates
- Heavy metals (lead, mercury)
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
-
Water quality: µg/L (micrograms per liter = ppb)
- Arsenic, lead, mercury in drinking water
- Pesticide residues
- Pharmaceutical contaminants
- Microplastics
-
Soil contamination: µg/kg (micrograms per kilogram = ppb)
- Heavy metal contamination
- Persistent organic pollutants
Regulatory Standards:
- EPA sets limits in µg/m³ or µg/L
- WHO guidelines use µg measurements
- EU environmental regulations
Toxicology and Forensics
Measuring extremely small amounts of toxic substances, drugs, or poisons in biological samples.
Forensic Toxicology:
- Blood drug levels (µg/L)
- Urine drug screening (µg/mL)
- Hair analysis (µg/mg hair)
- Tissue samples (µg/g tissue)
Clinical Toxicology:
- Heavy metal poisoning (blood lead: µg/dL)
- Drug overdose assessment
- Therapeutic drug monitoring
- Poison detection
Detection Limits:
- Modern instruments: Can detect picograms (0.001 µg)
- High sensitivity needed for trace toxins
Research and Development
Pharmaceutical R&D, materials science, and nanotechnology use micrograms for:
- Drug formulation studies
- Nanoparticle synthesis
- Catalyst development
- Biosensor fabrication
- Quality control testing
Use our weight converter for scientific conversions.
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 Microgram (µg)
How many micrograms are in a milligram?
There are 1,000 micrograms (µg) in 1 milligram (mg).
Conversion:
- 1 mg = 1,000 µg
- To convert mg to µg: multiply by 1,000
- To convert µg to mg: divide by 1,000
Examples:
- 0.5 mg = 500 µg
- 1.5 mg = 1,500 µg
- 0.025 mg = 25 µg
- 10 mg = 10,000 µg
Memory aid: "Milli" is bigger than "micro" - mg is 1,000 times larger than µg.
Use our mg to µg converter for instant conversions.
How many micrograms are in a gram?
There are 1,000,000 micrograms (µg) in 1 gram (g).
Calculation: 1 g = 1,000 mg, and 1 mg = 1,000 µg, therefore: 1 g = 1,000 × 1,000 µg = 1,000,000 µg
Conversion:
- 1 g = 1,000,000 µg
- To convert g to µg: multiply by 1,000,000
- To convert µg to g: divide by 1,000,000
Examples:
- 0.001 g = 1,000 µg
- 0.01 g = 10,000 µg
- 0.1 g = 100,000 µg
- 1 g = 1,000,000 µg
Perspective: A grain of salt (~1 mg) contains ~1,000 µg.
What is the symbol for microgram?
The standard symbol is µg (using the Greek letter µ, pronounced "mu").
Alternative symbol: mcg (used especially in medical contexts)
Why two symbols?:
- µg: Standard scientific notation, internationally recognized
- mcg: Safer in medical prescriptions - prevents µ being misread as m
- Both mean exactly the same thing: 1 µg = 1 mcg
Safety issue:
- Handwritten µ can look like m
- "µg" misread as "mg" = 1,000x dosing error
- Medical professionals prefer "mcg" to prevent fatal errors
How to type µ:
- Mac: Option + M
- Windows: Alt + 230
- Or just type "mcg" in medical contexts
Is µg the same as mcg?
Yes! µg and mcg mean exactly the same thing.
- µg: Microgram (using Greek letter µ)
- mcg: Microgram (using letters m-c-g)
- Both = 0.001 mg = 0.000001 g
Why both exist?:
- µg: Standard in science, chemistry, environmental science
- mcg: Preferred in medicine/pharmacy for safety
- Prevents µ being misread as m (which would be mg)
Where you'll see each:
- µg: Scientific papers, environmental reports, lab results
- mcg: Prescription bottles, medical records, pharmacy labels
- Both: Nutrition labels (may show either or both)
Important: Always verify which unit - never assume!
How much is 1 microgram visually?
1 microgram is EXTREMELY small - too small to see with the naked eye.
Visual comparisons:
- 1,000 µg = 1 mg = 1 grain of table salt
- 100 µg = Approximate weight of a human red blood cell
- 10 µg = Large grain of pollen
- 1 µg = Small speck of dust
Perspective:
- 1 paperclip ≈ 1,000,000 µg (1 gram)
- 1 grain of salt ≈ 1,000 µg (1 mg)
- 1 eyelash ≈ 10-100 µg
- 1 human hair (1 cm) ≈ 60-90 µg
For medication:
- A typical Vitamin B12 tablet (1,000 µg) looks like any small pill
- The active ingredient weighs 1 mg
- The rest is filler/binder
You cannot "see" individual micrograms - you need a precision scale to measure them accurately.
What medications are dosed in micrograms?
Many potent medications use microgram dosing:
Thyroid Hormones (most common):
- Levothyroxine: 25-200 µg
- Liothyronine: 5-50 µg
Hormonal Medications:
- Birth control pills: 15-35 µg estrogen
- Testosterone: Some formulations
Cardiovascular:
- Digoxin: 62.5-250 µg
- Clonidine: 100-600 µg
Pain Management:
- Fentanyl: Patches deliver µg/hour
- (Fentanyl is EXTREMELY potent - µg doses)
Vitamins (technically supplements):
- Vitamin B12: 100-5,000 µg
- Vitamin D: 10-125 µg (400-5,000 IU)
- Folate: 400-800 µg
- Biotin: 30-10,000 µg
Why micrograms?:
- Very potent drugs need small doses
- Narrow therapeutic window
- Prevents overdose from measurement errors
⚠️ Safety: These medications have microgram-level dosing precisely because they're potent. Never adjust dose without medical supervision.
How do I measure micrograms at home?
Short answer: You generally CAN'T and SHOULDN'T measure micrograms at home.
Why not?:
- Kitchen scales: Accurate to 1 gram (1,000,000 µg) - NOT precise enough
- Jewelry scales: Accurate to 0.01-0.1 g (10,000-100,000 µg) - still not precise
- Milligram scales: Accurate to 1 mg (1,000 µg) - closer but not µg-level
- Microgram precision: Requires laboratory analytical balance ($1,000-$10,000)
For Medications:
- ✅ Use pre-measured tablets/capsules - safest option
- ✅ Follow prescription exactly - don't compound at home
- ✅ Liquid medications: Use provided dropper/syringe
- ❌ Never try to measure powder medications at home
For Supplements:
- Buy pre-dosed pills (e.g., 1,000 µg B12 tablets)
- Use products with certified dosing
- Don't buy raw powder unless you're a lab
If you need microgram precision:
- Laboratory analytical balance required
- Calibrated weights for accuracy
- Controlled environment (no air currents)
- Cost: $1,000+ for quality balance
Safety warning: ⚠️ For medications, NEVER attempt home measurement. Fatal dosing errors possible. Always use professionally prepared medications.
What's the difference between µg/mL and mg/L?
They are exactly the same!
µg/mL = mg/L (both equal parts per million in water)
Why?:
- 1 mL = 0.001 L (or 1 L = 1,000 mL)
- 1 mg = 1,000 µg
- Therefore: 1 mg/L = 1,000 µg/1,000 mL = 1 µg/mL
Examples:
- Lead in water: 15 µg/L = 0.015 mg/L
- Drug concentration: 100 µg/mL = 100 mg/L
- Vitamin solution: 50 µg/mL = 50 mg/L
Common uses:
- µg/mL: Laboratory concentrations, drug solutions
- mg/L: Environmental standards, water quality
- Both: Used interchangeably depending on field
Parts per million (ppm):
- In water: 1 ppm = 1 mg/L = 1 µg/mL
- In air: 1 ppm is different (depends on molecular weight)
How many IU is a microgram?
It depends on which vitamin! IU (International Units) convert differently for each substance.
Vitamin D (most common):
- 1 µg = 40 IU
- 1 IU = 0.025 µg
Common Vitamin D conversions:
- 400 IU = 10 µg
- 800 IU = 20 µg
- 1,000 IU = 25 µg
- 2,000 IU = 50 µg
- 5,000 IU = 125 µg
Vitamin A (retinol):
- 1 IU ≈ 0.3 µg retinol
- 1 µg retinol ≈ 3.33 IU
Vitamin E (α-tocopherol):
- 1 IU ≈ 0.67 mg α-tocopherol
- (Note: mg not µg for Vitamin E!)
Why different?:
- IU measures biological activity, not mass
- Each vitamin has different potency
- Historical measurement system
- Modern labels often show both µg and IU
Tip: Check supplement labels - most show both µg and IU for clarity.
What is µg/dL in blood tests?
µg/dL = micrograms per deciliter - commonly used in blood test results.
What it means:
- Concentration of a substance in blood
- 1 dL = 100 mL (1 deciliter = 10th of a liter)
- µg/dL tells you: micrograms per 100 milliliters of blood
Common blood tests using µg/dL:
Blood Lead Level:
- Normal: <5 µg/dL
- Elevated: 5-10 µg/dL
- High: >10 µg/dL (concern)
- Toxic: >45 µg/dL
Blood Glucose (note: mg/dL, not µg/dL):
- Normal fasting: 70-100 mg/dL
- (This is milligrams, not micrograms!)
Iron/Ferritin: Sometimes reported in µg/dL Vitamin B12: Often ng/mL or pg/mL (nanograms/picograms)
Conversion:
- 1 µg/dL = 10 µg/L
- 1 µg/dL = 0.01 mg/L
- 1 µg/dL = 10 ng/mL
Clinical significance:
- Reference ranges vary by lab
- Always check lab's normal range
- Consult healthcare provider for interpretation
Note: µg/dL is different from µg/mL:
- 1 µg/dL = 0.01 µg/mL (100 times smaller)
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: Microgram to Kilogram
| Microgram (µg) | Kilogram (kg) |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0 |
| 1 | 0 |
| 1.5 | 0 |
| 2 | 0 |
| 5 | 0 |
| 10 | 0 |
| 25 | 0 |
| 50 | 0 |
| 100 | 0 |
| 250 | 0 |
| 500 | 0 |
| 1,000 | 0 |
People Also Ask
How do I convert Microgram to Kilogram?
To convert Microgram to Kilogram, enter the value in Microgram 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 Microgram to Kilogram?
The conversion factor depends on the specific relationship between Microgram 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 Microgram?
Yes! You can easily convert Kilogram back to Microgram by using the swap button (⇌) in the calculator above, or by visiting our Kilogram to Microgram converter page. You can also explore other weight conversions on our category page.
Learn more →What are common uses for Microgram and Kilogram?
Microgram 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) • Microgram to Gram
- Milligram (mg) • Microgram to Milligram
- Pound (lb) • Microgram to Pound
- Ounce (oz) • Microgram to Ounce
- Stone (st) • Microgram to Stone
- Ton (metric) (t) • Microgram to Ton (metric)
- Ton (US) (ton) • Microgram to Ton (US)
- Ton (UK) (long ton) • Microgram to Ton (UK)
- Carat (ct) • Microgram to Carat
- Slug (sl) • Microgram to Slug
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