Force Converter

Convert between different force units including newtons, kilonewtons, dynes, pound-force, kilogram-force, and poundals.

Force Converter

Common Force Converter Formulas

  • 1 newton = 1 kg·m/s²
  • 1 kilonewton = 1000 newtons
  • 1 dyne = 10⁻⁵ newtons
  • 1 pound-force ≈ 4.448 newtons
  • 1 kilogram-force ≈ 9.807 newtons

Common Force Converter References

  • Force of an Apple (weight): ~1 N
  • Human Push Force: 50-100 N
  • Car Engine Force: 2000-5000 N
  • Rocket Thrust: 10⁷ N
  • Earth's Gravitational Force: 9.8 N/kg

What is Force Conversion?

Force conversion involves converting measurements of push or pull from one unit to another. Force is fundamental to physics and engineering, describing interactions that can change an object motion or shape. Different measurement systems use different force units - newtons in the metric system, pounds-force in the imperial system. Our force converter provides accurate conversions for all common force units.

Common Force Units Explained

Newton (N)

The SI unit of force. One newton accelerates a 1 kg mass by 1 m/s². The force of gravity on an apple is about 1 newton.

Kilonewton (kN)

Equal to 1,000 newtons. Used for larger forces in engineering, such as the load capacity of bridges and cranes.

Pound-force (lbf)

The force of gravity on one pound of mass at Earth surface. Used in the US for measuring forces in everyday and engineering contexts.

Kilogram-force (kgf)

The force of gravity on one kilogram of mass. Although not SI, still used in some engineering contexts. Equal to about 9.81 newtons.

When to Use This Converter

Our force converter is valuable for engineers calculating structural loads, physicists working with mechanics problems, automotive technicians, and anyone working with force measurements across different unit systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the relationship between weight and force?

Weight is a force - the gravitational pull on an object mass. Weight in newtons = mass in kg × 9.81 (Earth gravity).

How do I convert pounds-force to newtons?

Multiply pounds-force by 4.448 to get newtons. For example, 10 lbf ≈ 44.48 N.