Convert lbs to ton

Pound

Definition
A pound (symbol: lb) is a mass unit in the British Imperial and U.S. customary systems. The international avoirdupois pound is exactly 0.45359237 kg and divides into 16 ounces for easy fractional measurements.

Origins
Tracing back to the Roman libra, many regional pounds existed until the 13th-century adoption of the avoirdupois system standardized a pound at 16 ounces—chosen because 16 divides evenly by 2, 4, and 8. This definition was internationally ratified in 1959.

Modern Use
In the United States, pounds remain the go-to for body weight, groceries, and general commerce. In the U.K., metric units prevail officially, but pounds still appear on packaged goods and alongside stones (1 stone = 14 lb) when stating personal weight.

Metric Ton (Tonne)

Definition
A metric ton (symbol: t), or tonne, is an SI unit of mass equal to exactly 1 000 kg (2 204.6226 lb). It’s the standard “ton” in most countries and in all scientific and international trade contexts.

Origins
The term “ton” comes from the Old English tun, meaning a large cask. As commerce globalized, the metric ton was established at 1 000 kg when the SI system was adopted, replacing varied regional definitions.

Modern Use
Tonne is the legally recognized ton for trade worldwide. It’s used in shipping, commodities, industry, and anywhere large masses are measured—superseding the short and long tons in most applications.

Pound → Metric Ton Conversion Table

How to Convert

• 1 lb = 0.00045359237 t

• 1 t = 2204.62262185 lb

Example

Convert 15 lb to metric tons:

15 × 0.00045359237 = 0.0068038856 t