Convert Long Ton to Metric Ton

FromLong Ton (ton)

ToMetric Ton (t)

Long Ton

The long ton (symbol lt) is a unit of mass primarily used in the United Kingdom and some Commonwealth countries. It is equal to 2,240 pounds or approximately 1,016.05 kilograms. The long ton is part of the imperial system and is larger than both the short ton (used in the U.S.) and the metric ton.

Origin:

The long ton originated in medieval England as a standardized measure for trade, particularly for goods like coal and other bulk materials. It was defined as 20 long hundredweight, with each long hundredweight being 112 pounds. This measure became part of the British Imperial System in 1824 and has been widely used in maritime and industrial contexts, especially in the UK, before the metric system was more broadly adopted.

Metric Ton

The metric ton (or tonne, symbol t) is a unit of mass equal to 1,000 kilograms (1,000 kg) or 1 megagram (1 Mg). It is part of the metric system but is not an SI unit. However, it is accepted for use with the SI due to its widespread application in measuring large masses, such as in industry and transportation.

Origin:

The metric ton was introduced in the 1790s during the creation of the metric system in France. It was established as a convenient way to represent large quantities of mass, aligning with the decimal-based nature of the system. The term "tonne" is derived from the Old French word "tonne", meaning a large cask or barrel, reflecting its use in measuring heavy loads. Over time, it became a standardized unit used globally in fields like shipping, agriculture, and environmental science.