Customary Units of Weight

Benchmarks are the measurements that can be used to estimate the weight of other objects

An ounce is a very small unit of measurement which is used to measure weights as small as a slice of bread

A loaf of bread is used as a benchmark for a pound

The weight of a small car is used as a benchmark for a ton

We use the following conversion factors to convert the various units of weight:

1 pound = 16 ounces
1 ton = 2,000 pounds

To convert a smaller unit to a bigger unit, divide the smaller unit by the conversion factor

To convert a bigger unit to a smaller unit, multiply the bigger unit by the conversion factor

We can also use the method of proportions to convert one unit to another. One of the ratios (used in the proportion) is the conversion factor

To compare or perform calculations on measurements in various units, we need to express the various measurements in a common unit

1 pound = 16 ounces
1 ton = 2,000 pounds