Metric System

Gram

Definition

A metric unit of mass equal to one-thousandth of a kilogram (10⁻³ kg), originally defined as the mass of 1 cubic centimeter of water at 4°C.

Explanation

The gram provides a convenient scale for everyday small masses: a paperclip weighs about 1 gram; a US nickel coin weighs exactly 5 grams; a slice of bread weighs roughly 25–30 grams. Nutrition labels express nutrient content in grams and milligrams. The milligram (mg = 0.001 g) is used in pharmacology for drug dosages; the microgram (µg = 10⁻⁶ g) is used for vitamins and trace minerals.

01

RELATED CONVERSIONS

02

RELATED ARTICLES

03

RELATED TERMS