Microgram to Pound Converter
Convert micrograms to pounds with our free online weight converter.
Quick Answer
1 Microgram = 2.204623e-9 pounds
Formula: Microgram × conversion factor = Pound
Use the calculator below for instant, accurate conversions.
Our Accuracy Guarantee
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 Pound Calculator
How to Use the Microgram to Pound Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Microgram).
- The converted value in Pound 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 Pound: Step-by-Step Guide
Converting Microgram to Pound involves multiplying the value by a specific conversion factor, as shown in the formula below.
Formula:
1 Microgram = 2.20462e-9 poundsExample Calculation:
Convert 5 micrograms: 5 × 2.20462e-9 = 1.10231e-8 pounds
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 Pound?
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 pound is a unit of mass in the British imperial and United States customary systems of measurement. Since the international yard and pound agreement of 1959, one pound has been defined as exactly 0.45359237 kilograms. This makes the pound equal to precisely 16 ounces, 7,000 grains, or 453.59237 grams.
The pound is denoted by the symbol lb (from the Latin libra, meaning balance or scales) or sometimes lbs for plural, though technically "lb" serves both singular and plural. In commercial contexts, you'll see prices as "$/lb" (dollars per pound) or weights as "5 lb bag."
Unlike the metric system where weight relationships are decimal (1,000 grams = 1 kilogram), the pound uses the relationship of 16 ounces to 1 pound. This fractional system reflects historical divisions: 1 pound = 16 ounces = 256 drams = 7,000 grains, with each division serving practical purposes in trade and measurement.
Note: The Microgram is part of the metric (SI) system, primarily used globally in science and trade. The Pound belongs to the imperial/US customary system.
History of the Microgram and Pound
-
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)
The pound represents one of the oldest weight measurements in continuous use, with lineage tracing back over two millennia.
Roman Origins: The word "pound" derives from the Latin pondus (weight), while the symbol "lb" comes from libra, the Roman unit of weight equal to approximately 329 grams. The Romans used a libra divided into 12 unciae (ounces), though this differs from the modern 16-ounce pound.
Medieval Development: Multiple "pounds" existed simultaneously in medieval Europe—the tower pound (5,400 grains), merchant's pound (6,750 grains), and troy pound (5,760 grains) for precious metals. This created confusion in commerce and necessitated standardization.
Avoirdupois System: In 13th-century England, the avoirdupois system (from Old French aver de peis, "goods of weight") emerged for general commerce. The avoirdupois pound standardized at 16 ounces, each containing 437.5 grains, totaling 7,000 grains per pound. This system proved so practical for trade that it displaced most other pound definitions.
British Standardization: The Weights and Measures Act of 1824 established the imperial pound throughout the British Empire, legally defining it through physical standards. The Imperial Standard Pound, a platinum cylinder, was kept at the Houses of Parliament as the official definition.
US Independence: After the American Revolution, the United States maintained the British pound definition from colonial times. The Mendenhall Order of 1893 tied US weights to metric standards: 1 pound = 0.4535924277 kilograms (based on 1 meter = 39.37 inches).
1959 International Agreement: The international yard and pound agreement unified English-speaking nations. The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa agreed that 1 pound equals exactly 0.45359237 kilograms. This created perfect mathematical alignment between imperial and metric systems.
Troy vs. Avoirdupois: Two pound systems coexist today. The avoirdupois pound (16 oz, 453.6 g) is used for general commerce and everyday measurements. The troy pound (12 troy oz, 373.2 g) survives only for precious metals—gold, silver, platinum. When someone says "pound" without qualifier, they always mean avoirdupois pound.
Cultural Persistence: Despite metric conversion efforts worldwide, the pound persists in American daily life. The 1975 Metric Conversion Act made metric "preferred" but voluntary, allowing continued pound usage. Today, Americans buy meat in pounds, weigh themselves in pounds, and ship packages in pounds, maintaining a measurement tradition spanning centuries.
Common Uses and Applications: micrograms vs pounds
Explore the typical applications for both Microgram (metric) and Pound (imperial/US) 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 pounds
Medical and Healthcare Settings
Healthcare in the US primarily operates in pounds for patient weight, though hospitals increasingly record kilograms for medication dosing calculations. Patient charts typically show both: "185 lbs (84 kg)." However, all patient communication uses pounds—doctors say "You've gained 5 pounds" or "Try to lose 10-15 pounds," never kilograms.
Weight-based medication dosing creates complexity: drugs dose in mg/kg, requiring conversion. A 160-lb patient equals 72.6 kg, so a drug dosed at 5 mg/kg requires 363 mg. Medical staff use conversion charts or electronic calculators to prevent errors.
Anesthesiology requires precise weight for medication dosing. Operating room scales display both pounds and kilograms, with staff typically asking patients "What's your weight in pounds?" for verification against chart data.
Public health BMI calculations use pounds and inches in the US: BMI = (weight in pounds × 703) ÷ (height in inches)². A person 5'9" (69") weighing 170 lbs has BMI = (170 × 703) ÷ (69 × 69) = 25.1, just into the "overweight" category (BMI 25-29.9).
Weight Loss and Fitness Industry
Diet programs, weight loss apps, and fitness tracking exclusively use pounds in the US market. Weight Watchers, MyFitnessPal, Lose It!, and similar apps default to pounds, though users can switch to kilograms.
Fitness goals frame in pounds: "Lose 20 pounds by summer," "Gain 10 pounds of muscle," "Drop 5 pounds this month." Personal trainers track client progress in pounds, celebrating milestone losses: "You've lost 25 pounds—that's like losing two bowling balls!"
Scale psychology creates significance for specific numbers. Dropping below 200 lbs (reaching "onederland") represents a major milestone for many dieters. Breaking into the 100s (199 lbs) feels dramatically different from 200 lbs despite being only 1 pound difference.
Bodybuilding competitions divide by weight classes in pounds: lightweight (<154 lbs), middleweight (154-176 lbs), light-heavyweight (176-198 lbs), heavyweight (198-242 lbs), super-heavyweight (>242 lbs). Competitors cut weight aggressively, sometimes losing 10-20 lbs of water weight in final days before weigh-in.
Commercial Food Service and Restaurants
Restaurant kitchens order ingredients in pounds and bulk quantities:
- 50-lb bags of onions
- 40-lb cases of chicken breast
- 25-lb blocks of cheese
- 5-lb containers of mayonnaise
- 10-lb boxes of bacon
Recipe scaling in commercial kitchens calculates in pounds: a recipe serving 20 using 2 lbs ground beef scales to serve 100 by using 10 lbs. Kitchen scales measure in pounds and ounces, with precision to 0.1 oz for small quantities.
Food costs calculate per pound: if chicken costs $2.50/lb and a dish uses 6 oz (0.375 lbs), the protein cost is $0.94 per serving. Restaurant profitability depends on accurate food costing, requiring staff to think fluently in pounds and ounces.
Portion control uses ounces: 8-oz steak, 6-oz salmon fillet, 4-oz burger patty (quarter-pounder). Pre-portioned proteins simplify cooking and ensure consistency. A case of forty 4-oz burger patties weighs 10 lbs total.
Postal and Freight Shipping
The entire US shipping industry operates in pounds. Postage rates tier by weight:
USPS First-Class Mail:
- Up to 3 oz: $0.63 (letter)
- Up to 13 oz: Incrementally increases
- Over 13 oz: Requires Priority Mail
Priority Mail tiers:
- Up to 1 lb: $8.50 flat rate (approximate regional)
- 1-2 lbs: $9.50
- 2-3 lbs: $11.00
- Continues in 1-lb increments to 70 lbs
Shipping costs increase dramatically with weight. A 15.5-lb package costs significantly more than a 15-lb package if it crosses a tier boundary. Online sellers optimize packaging to stay within weight tiers: use lighter boxes, remove unnecessary materials, choose compact packaging.
Freight shipping (over 150 lbs) charges by "hundredweight" (CWT): cost per 100 lbs. A 750-lb shipment traveling 500 miles at $45/CWT costs $337.50 (7.5 × $45).
Farming and Agriculture
Agricultural commerce operates entirely in pounds:
Crop yields per acre:
- Corn: 170-200 bushels/acre (56 lbs per bushel = 9,520-11,200 lbs/acre)
- Soybeans: 50-60 bushels/acre (60 lbs per bushel = 3,000-3,600 lbs/acre)
- Wheat: 50-70 bushels/acre (60 lbs per bushel = 3,000-4,200 lbs/acre)
Livestock weights:
- Market hogs: Sold at 250-280 lbs live weight
- Feeder cattle: Sold at 600-800 lbs, finished at 1,200-1,400 lbs
- Broiler chickens: Processed at 5-6 lbs
- Turkeys: Processed at 25-30 lbs
Feed calculations:
- Dairy cow eats 50-60 lbs of feed daily
- Beef cattle eat 25-30 lbs of feed daily during finishing
- Horse eats 15-25 lbs of hay daily
- Bag of horse feed: 50 lbs (common size)
Farmers sell crops and livestock by the pound or hundredweight (100 lbs). Commodity prices quote in cents per pound: corn at $0.055/lb, soybeans at $0.15/lb (converted from bushel prices).
Manufacturing and Industrial Production
Manufacturing specs, especially for non-precision work, use pounds:
Sheet metal weight:
- Steel sheet weight: pounds per square foot for given thickness
- Aluminum sheet: Lighter than steel at same thickness
- Copper sheet: Heavier than steel
Material handling:
- Pallet weight limits: 2,500 lbs typical
- Forklift capacity: 3,000-5,000 lbs common
- Hand truck/dolly: 500-800 lbs capacity
Product specifications:
- Appliances: Refrigerator 200-300 lbs, washing machine 150-200 lbs
- Furniture: Dining table 50-150 lbs, dresser 100-200 lbs
- Machinery: Small lathe 500-1,500 lbs, mill 2,000-5,000 lbs
Shipping and logistics calculate by weight and dimensions. Freight classifications assign classes based on weight density (pounds per cubic foot): class 50 (50+ lbs/cu ft, densest), class 500 (1 lb/cu ft, lightest).
Waste Management and Recycling
Waste services charge based on weight:
Dumpster weight limits:
- 10-yard dumpster: 2-3 tons (4,000-6,000 lbs) weight limit
- 20-yard dumpster: 3-4 tons (6,000-8,000 lbs)
- 40-yard dumpster: 5-6 tons (10,000-12,000 lbs)
Exceeding weight limits incurs fees: $50-100 per ton over limit. Construction debris (concrete, brick, dirt) quickly exceeds weight limits despite not filling volume.
Recycling programs:
- Aluminum cans: ~30 cans per pound, recyclers pay $0.30-0.50/lb
- Scrap steel: $0.05-0.15/lb
- Copper: $2-4/lb (valuable, often stolen)
- Cardboard: $0.02-0.10/lb
- Paper: $0.01-0.05/lb
Individuals recycling metals weigh loads at scrap yards on drive-over scales, receiving payment based on total pounds by category.
Pet Care and Veterinary Medicine
Pet food portion recommendations use pounds:
- Small dogs (<20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup food daily
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1 to 2 cups daily
- Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 2 to 3.5 cups daily
- Giant dogs (>90 lbs): 3.5 to 5+ cups daily
Medication dosing requires accurate pet weight. A 40-lb dog receiving medication at 1 mg/lb needs a 40 mg dose. Underdosing proves ineffective; overdosing risks toxicity.
Veterinarians track pet weight over time, flagging unhealthy gains or losses. "Fluffy has gained 3 pounds since last year—we need to reduce portions" or "Max has lost 5 pounds unexpectedly—let's run some tests."
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 Pound (lb)
How many ounces are in a pound?
There are exactly 16 ounces in 1 avoirdupois pound. This relationship is fundamental to the US customary weight system and has remained constant since the avoirdupois system was standardized in 13th-century England.
The 16-ounce division allows convenient fractional measurements: 1/2 pound = 8 oz, 1/4 pound = 4 oz (quarter-pounder burger), 1/8 pound = 2 oz. Food packaging commonly uses both: "1 lb (16 oz)" or "12 oz (3/4 lb)."
Converting pounds to ounces: Multiply pounds by 16
- 1 lb = 16 oz
- 2.5 lbs = 40 oz
- 0.75 lbs = 12 oz (three-quarters of a pound)
Converting ounces to pounds: Divide ounces by 16
- 32 oz = 2 lbs
- 24 oz = 1.5 lbs
- 10 oz = 0.625 lbs
Mixed notation: "5 lbs 10 oz" means 5 pounds + 10 ounces = (5 × 16) + 10 = 90 ounces total.
Important distinction: Fluid ounces (volume) and ounces (weight) are different measurements. "16 fluid ounces" of water weighs approximately 16 ounces, but 16 fluid ounces of honey weighs about 24 ounces. The context determines which "ounce" is meant.
How do I convert pounds to kilograms?
To convert pounds to kilograms, multiply by 0.45359237. This is the exact conversion factor established by the 1959 international agreement.
Formula: kilograms = pounds × 0.45359237
Examples:
- 1 lb = 0.454 kg
- 10 lbs = 4.536 kg
- 50 lbs = 22.680 kg
- 100 lbs = 45.359 kg
- 150 lbs = 68.039 kg
- 200 lbs = 90.718 kg
Quick approximation: For mental math, divide pounds by 2.2 (or multiply by 0.45):
- 100 lbs ÷ 2.2 ≈ 45.5 kg (actual: 45.36 kg)
- 150 lbs ÷ 2.2 ≈ 68.2 kg (actual: 68.04 kg)
Reverse conversion (kg to lbs): Multiply kilograms by 2.20462
- 10 kg = 22.046 lbs
- 50 kg = 110.231 lbs
- 75 kg = 165.347 lbs
For professional contexts (medical dosing, commercial trade, engineering), always use the exact conversion factor. For casual estimates ("How heavy is that in kilograms?"), dividing by 2.2 provides close enough results.
What measurement system uses pounds?
The pound (lb) is a key unit in the imperial and US customary measurement systems. While the UK officially adopted the metric system in 1965, pounds remain common for body weight, and road signs still show distances in miles. The United States uses pounds extensively across all aspects of daily life.
Where pounds are standard:
- United States: Primary weight unit for commerce, body weight, cooking, shipping
- United Kingdom: Still common for body weight (though officially metric)
- Canada: Used alongside metric, especially for body weight and produce
- Caribbean nations: Many former British colonies maintain some imperial usage
Where kilograms dominate:
- European Union countries (mandatory metric since 1960s-1990s)
- Asia (Japan, China, Korea, etc.)
- Australia and New Zealand (converted to metric 1970s)
- Latin America
- Africa (except Liberia)
Hybrid usage: Many countries officially metric still use pounds informally. UK residents often describe body weight in stones and pounds despite official metric policy. Canada labels food in both grams and ounces.
Where is the pound commonly used?
The pound is primarily used in the United States for everyday measurements. Americans use pounds for:
Personal:
- Body weight (bathroom scales, medical records)
- Baby weight ("7 pounds, 6 ounces")
- Pet weight (vet visits, food portions)
- Luggage weight (airline limits)
Commerce:
- Grocery pricing ($3.99/lb for meat, produce)
- Postal shipping (USPS rates by pound)
- Food packaging (5-lb bag of flour)
- Restaurant portions (8-oz steak, quarter-pound burger)
Industrial:
- Construction materials (80-lb bag of concrete)
- Agricultural commodities (livestock sold per pound)
- Manufacturing specifications (product weights)
- Freight shipping (charges per 100 lbs)
The United Kingdom and Canada also use pounds commonly, though officially metric. UK residents often state body weight in stones and pounds. Canadian grocery stores show prices in both $/lb and $/kg.
In aviation, pounds of thrust measure jet engine power worldwide, and pounds of fuel calculate aircraft loading, even in metric countries—similar to altitude measured in feet globally.
Why do we use "lb" for pound?
The symbol "lb" comes from the Latin word libra, meaning balance or scales, which was the Roman unit of weight. The word "pound" itself derives from Latin pondus (weight), while the abbreviation preserved the Roman unit name.
Historical explanation:
- Roman libra ≈ 329 grams (about 0.7 modern pounds)
- Medieval scholars used "lb" as the standard abbreviation
- When the avoirdupois pound (16 oz, 454g) became England's commercial standard, it retained the Roman abbreviation despite the different weight value
Modern usage:
- "lb" serves both singular and plural (1 lb, 5 lb, not "5 lbs" technically, though "lbs" is common)
- Pronounced "pound" or "pounds" despite the letters "l-b"
- Used internationally in trade: "100 lb net weight"
Related terms:
- PSI = Pounds per Square Inch (pressure)
- lb-ft = pound-feet (torque)
- lb-test = fishing line strength (pounds of force before breaking)
The disconnect between spelling (lb) and pronunciation (pound) confuses English learners, but it's deeply embedded in language. No serious proposals exist to change it—tradition preserves the Roman abbreviation despite its non-phonetic representation.
What's the difference between mass and weight in pounds?
In scientific terms, mass measures the amount of matter in an object (kilogram or pound-mass), while weight measures the gravitational force on that mass (Newton or pound-force). However, in everyday American usage, "pound" refers to both interchangeably without distinction.
Scientific definitions:
- Mass (lbm): Amount of matter, constant regardless of location
- Weight (lbf): Force due to gravity = mass × acceleration
On Earth's surface, an object with 1 pound-mass (lbm) experiences 1 pound-force (lbf) of weight. On the Moon (1/6 Earth's gravity), that 1 lbm object would weigh only 0.167 lbf—but bathroom scales there would still show "1 lb" because they're calibrated for Earth gravity.
Everyday reality: When Americans say "I weigh 150 pounds," they technically mean "I have a mass that creates 150 pounds-force on Earth." Scales measure force (weight) but display mass units (pounds) assuming Earth gravity.
Engineering context: Engineers distinguish lbm (pound-mass) from lbf (pound-force) in calculations involving acceleration, thrust, or different gravitational environments. Aerospace applications carefully track both since spacecraft experience varying gravitational forces.
Practical impact: For everyday purposes—buying meat, weighing luggage, measuring body weight—the distinction doesn't matter. All occur at Earth's surface where 1 lbm = 1 lbf. Only in scientific, aerospace, or physics contexts does the mass vs. weight distinction require precision.
How much is a stone in pounds?
One stone equals exactly 14 pounds. The stone is a British imperial unit of weight still commonly used in the UK and Ireland for human body weight, though officially replaced by kilograms in most contexts.
Common conversions:
- 1 stone = 14 lbs = 6.35 kg
- 10 stone = 140 lbs = 63.5 kg
- 12 stone = 168 lbs = 76.2 kg
- 15 stone = 210 lbs = 95.3 kg
UK usage: British people typically express body weight in stones and pounds together:
- "I weigh 11 stone 8" = 11 stone + 8 lbs = 154 + 8 = 162 lbs total
- "I've lost half a stone" = lost 7 lbs
- "I need to lose 2 stone" = need to lose 28 lbs
Historical context: The stone was standardized in 1835 at 14 pounds for weighing people. Different stone weights existed historically for various commodities: wool stone (14 lbs), meat stone (8 lbs), cheese stone (16 lbs). The 14-pound definition survived for body weight.
Modern decline: Official UK government documents and medical records now use kilograms following metrication. However, bathroom scales in UK homes often still display stones and pounds, and older generations particularly think in stones when discussing weight.
US usage: Americans rarely use stones. When British media mentions someone weighing "12 stone," American audiences need conversion to understand this means 168 lbs.
Can you mix pounds and ounces in calculations?
Yes, but you must handle them carefully to avoid errors. Pounds and ounces can be added, subtracted, multiplied, and divided, but excess ounces must convert to pounds (since 16 oz = 1 lb).
Addition/Subtraction: Add or subtract pounds and ounces separately, then convert excess ounces:
- 5 lbs 10 oz + 3 lbs 8 oz = 8 lbs 18 oz = 9 lbs 2 oz (convert 18 oz = 1 lb 2 oz)
- 7 lbs 4 oz − 2 lbs 10 oz: borrow 1 lb = 16 oz, so 7 lbs 4 oz = 6 lbs 20 oz, then 6 lbs 20 oz − 2 lbs 10 oz = 4 lbs 10 oz
Multiplication/Division: Convert entirely to ounces or decimal pounds:
- Double 3 lbs 6 oz: Convert to 54 oz, double = 108 oz = 6 lbs 12 oz
- Half of 5 lbs 10 oz: Convert to 90 oz, half = 45 oz = 2 lbs 13 oz
- Or use decimal: 5 lbs 10 oz = 5.625 lbs, half = 2.8125 lbs = 2 lbs 13 oz
Decimal conversion:
- Pounds to decimal: 5 lbs 10 oz = 5 + (10÷16) = 5.625 lbs
- Decimal to pounds-ounces: 3.75 lbs = 3 lbs + 0.75 lbs = 3 lbs + 12 oz = 3 lbs 12 oz
Kitchen scales: Many digital scales switch between decimal pounds (5.63 lbs) and pounds-ounces (5 lbs 10 oz). Use decimal for recipe scaling and math, pounds-ounces for traditional recipes and portions.
What's a "hundredweight" and how does it relate to pounds?
A hundredweight (abbreviated cwt) is a unit equal to 100 pounds in the US customary system. It's primarily used in freight shipping, agriculture, and commodity trading for pricing and calculating large quantities.
US hundredweight (short hundredweight): 100 pounds exactly
- Used in United States and Canada
- Freight rates often quote as $/cwt (dollars per hundred pounds)
- Commodity prices: livestock, grains sometimes price per cwt
UK hundredweight (long hundredweight): 112 pounds (8 stone)
- Used historically in British imperial system
- Now largely obsolete in favor of metric
- Equal to 1/20 of a UK long ton (2,240 lbs)
Practical examples:
- Freight charges: "$25/cwt" means $25 per 100 lbs
- A 500-lb shipment at $25/cwt costs 5 × $25 = $125
- Cattle pricing: "$180/cwt" means $1.80/lb; 1,200-lb steer = $2,160
Ton relationships:
- US short ton = 2,000 lbs = 20 cwt
- UK long ton = 2,240 lbs = 20 (UK) cwt
- Metric tonne = 2,204.6 lbs ≈ 22 cwt
Why it persists: Hundredweight provides convenient round numbers for commodity trading and freight pricing. Saying "$45 per hundredweight" sounds simpler than "$0.45 per pound," and multiplying weight by hundredweight rate requires fewer decimal places.
How accurate do bathroom scales measure pounds?
Typical consumer bathroom scales measure weight accurate to ±0.2-1 pound (±90-450 grams), depending on quality and calibration. This means a scale showing "150 lbs" indicates your actual weight is likely between 149-151 lbs.
Scale types and accuracy:
- Spring/mechanical scales: ±1 lb typical accuracy, can drift over time
- Basic digital scales: ±0.5 lb typical accuracy
- High-quality digital scales: ±0.2 lb accuracy (±90 grams)
- Medical-grade scales: ±0.1 lb accuracy (±50 grams)
- Laboratory balances: ±0.01 lb accuracy (±5 grams)
Factors affecting accuracy:
- Surface: Scales must sit on hard, flat, level floors; carpet adds error
- Calibration: Scales drift over time and need periodic calibration
- Battery: Low battery affects digital scale accuracy
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures alter spring tension or sensor readings
- Weight distribution: Leaning or shifting weight creates false readings
Consistency vs. accuracy: For weight tracking, consistency matters more than absolute accuracy. If your scale consistently reads 2 lbs heavy, you can still track changes accurately. Weigh yourself same time daily (morning after bathroom, before eating), same scale, same conditions.
Verification: To check scale accuracy, weigh a known weight (10-lb dumbbell, 5-lb bag of flour). If the scale shows 10.2 lbs for a 10-lb dumbbell, it's within reasonable tolerance. Differences over 0.5 lbs suggest recalibration needed.
Conversion Table: Microgram to Pound
| Microgram (µg) | Pound (lb) |
|---|---|
| 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 Pound?
To convert Microgram to Pound, 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 Pound?
The conversion factor depends on the specific relationship between Microgram and Pound. 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 Pound back to Microgram?
Yes! You can easily convert Pound back to Microgram by using the swap button (⇌) in the calculator above, or by visiting our Pound to Microgram converter page. You can also explore other weight conversions on our category page.
Learn more →What are common uses for Microgram and Pound?
Microgram and Pound 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:
- Kilogram (kg) • Microgram to Kilogram
- Gram (g) • Microgram to Gram
- Milligram (mg) • Microgram to Milligram
- 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