1 slug is equal to approximately 14.5939 kilograms.
The slug is a unit of mass used primarily in the US customary system, and converting it to kilograms requires multiplying by the conversion factor 14.5939. This means one slug weighs about 14.5939 kilograms when measured in metric units.
Conversion Tool
Result in kg:
Conversion Formula
The formula to convert slug to kilograms is: kg = slug × 14.5939. This works because one slug is defined as the mass that accelerates by 1 ft/s² when a force of one pound-force is exerted on it. The kilogram is the SI unit of mass based on the International System of Units.
Step-by-step example:
- Take the number of slugs (e.g., 1 slug).
- Multiply by the factor 14.5939 (since 1 slug = 14.5939 kg).
- 1 slug × 14.5939 = 14.5939 kg.
This method converts the mass directly without needing to convert force or acceleration units.
Conversion Example
- 3 slugs to kilograms:
- Multiply 3 by 14.5939.
- 3 × 14.5939 = 43.7817 kg.
- Therefore, 3 slugs equal 43.7817 kilograms.
- 5.5 slugs to kilograms:
- Multiply 5.5 by 14.5939.
- 5.5 × 14.5939 = 80.2665 kg.
- So, 5.5 slugs equals 80.2665 kilograms.
- 10 slugs to kilograms:
- Multiply 10 by 14.5939.
- 10 × 14.5939 = 145.939 kg.
- Thus, 10 slugs equal 145.939 kilograms.
- 0.25 slugs to kilograms:
- Multiply 0.25 by 14.5939.
- 0.25 × 14.5939 = 3.6485 kg.
- Therefore, 0.25 slugs is 3.6485 kilograms.
Conversion Chart
Slug | Kilograms (kg) |
---|---|
-24.0 | -350.2536 |
-20.0 | -291.8780 |
-15.5 | -226.2160 |
-10.0 | -145.9390 |
-5.0 | -72.9695 |
-1.0 | -14.5939 |
0.0 | 0.0000 |
1.0 | 14.5939 |
5.0 | 72.9695 |
10.0 | 145.9390 |
15.0 | 218.9085 |
20.0 | 291.8780 |
26.0 | 379.8414 |
The chart shows slug values from -24.0 to 26.0 and their equivalent weights in kilograms. You can use it quickly to find approximate conversions without calculation. Negative values indicate mass in the opposing direction, which might be used in physics contexts.
Related Conversion Questions
- How many kilograms are there in 1 slug?
- What is the exact weight of one slug in kilograms?
- Can I convert 1 slug to kg using a simple formula?
- Is 1 slug heavier than 10 kilograms?
- How do I convert slug mass to kilograms for 1 slug?
- What conversion factor do I use to change 1 slug into kilograms?
- Does 1 slug equal more or less than 15 kg?
Conversion Definitions
Slug: A slug is a unit of mass used in the US customary system, representing the mass that accelerates by 1 foot per second squared under a force of one pound-force. It is mainly applied in physics and engineering, equaling about 14.5939 kilograms.
Kilogram (kg): The kilogram is the base unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI), defined by the Planck constant. It is used worldwide in science, commerce and everyday life, representing the mass of one liter of water at 4 degrees Celsius approximately.
Conversion FAQs
Why does converting slugs to kilograms require multiplying by 14.5939?
The number 14.5939 comes from the relationship between the US customary units and metric units. One slug equals the mass that experiences 1 pound-force acceleration of 1 ft/s², and converting that mass to kilograms involves this fixed factor. It is not arbitrary but based on physical definitions of force and acceleration.
Can I use this conversion for negative slug values?
Yes, negative values for slugs represent mass with directionality in physics calculations (vector quantities). Although uncommon in everyday mass measurement, the conversion process remains the same: multiply the slug value by 14.5939, whether positive or negative.
Is the slug unit still in use today?
The slug is rarely used outside the US and mainly appears in older engineering or physics problems. Most modern science and industry use kilograms, but understanding slugs helps in legacy systems and some specialized fields like aerospace or mechanical engineering.
How accurate is this conversion factor?
The conversion factor 14.5939 is precise for most practical purposes, derived from defined constants in physics. Tiny differences might appear with rounding, but for everyday calculations or engineering work, the factor is reliable and consistent.
Can I convert kilograms back to slugs?
Yes, to convert kilograms to slugs, divide the kilogram value by 14.5939. This inverse formula allows switching between units easily, depending on which measurement system you are working within or referencing.