Short Tons (US)
Abbreviation/Symbol:
tn
Worldwide use:
Short tons (US), also known as US tons or simply tons, are widely used as a unit of measurement in the United States. However, their usage extends beyond the borders of the US, with several other countries also adopting this unit for specific purposes.
Definition:
Short tons (US), also known as net tons or simply tons, are a unit of measurement commonly used in the United States to quantify weight. The term "short" distinguishes it from the long ton, which is used in the United Kingdom and other countries. One short ton is equal to 2,000 pounds or approximately 907.185 kilograms.
Origin:
The origin of the short ton (US) can be traced back to the United States, where it is commonly used as a unit of weight. The term "ton" itself has a long history, originating from the Old English word "tunne," which referred to a large cask or barrel used for storing liquids like wine or beer. Over time, the term evolved to represent a unit of weight.
Usage context:
Short tons (US) is primarily used in industries such as mining, construction, and transportation, where large quantities of heavy materials need to be measured.
In the mining industry, short tons are frequently used to measure the weight of extracted minerals, such as coal, iron ore, or copper. These minerals are often transported in bulk and sold by the ton, making short tons a convenient unit for pricing and trading purposes. Similarly, in the construction industry, short tons are used to quantify the weight of materials like gravel, sand, or concrete, which are essential for building projects.
The transportation sector also relies on short tons for various purposes. For instance, when determining the payload capacity of trucks, trains, or ships, short tons are used to calculate the maximum weight that can be safely transported. This information is crucial for ensuring the efficiency and safety of transportation operations.