Weight and mass converter
This weight and mass converter tool helps you convert between 71 different units:
Common weight and mass units explained
Learn more about these commonly used weight and mass units:
All possible weight and mass conversions
Below, we provide an overview of all the weight and mass conversions available on this website to help you navigate and utilize our resources efficiently.
What are Weight and Mass?
Weight and mass are two fundamental concepts in physics and measurement, often used interchangeably but with distinct meanings. Mass refers to the amount of matter in an object, while weight is the force exerted by gravity on that mass. Understanding the difference between weight and mass is crucial in science, engineering, and daily applications.
Common Units of Weight and Mass
Weight and mass are measured using different units depending on the system of measurement. Below are some commonly used units:
Mass Units
- Gram (g) – Metric system
- Kilogram (kg) – Metric system (SI base unit of mass)
- Milligram (mg) – Metric system
- Ton (t) – Metric system (1,000 kg)
- Ounce (oz) – Imperial system
- Pound (lb) – Imperial system
- Stone (st) – Imperial system (mainly used in the UK)
Weight Units
- Newton (N) – SI derived unit of force (1 kg⋅m/s²)
- Dyne – CGS unit (1 dyne = 10⁻⁵ N)
- Pound-force (lbf) – Imperial system
Difference Between Weight and Mass
While mass remains constant regardless of location, weight depends on gravity. For instance, an object with a mass of 10 kg on Earth has a different weight on the Moon due to weaker gravity.
FAQs About Weight and Mass
Why do astronauts feel weightless in space?
Astronauts feel weightless because they are in free fall around the Earth. Their mass remains the same, but the lack of a normal force acting against gravity gives the sensation of weightlessness.
Can weight be negative?
Weight itself cannot be negative since it is a force exerted by gravity. However, in physics calculations, a negative weight may indicate direction relative to a reference point.
How does weight change on different planets?
Since weight depends on gravitational pull, it changes depending on the planet. For example, an object weighing 100 N on Earth would weigh only 16.6 N on the Moon due to lower gravity.