Pounds to Ounces Converter
Convert weight between pounds (lb) and ounces (oz) instantly with bidirectional conversion
Convert Weight
International avoirdupois pound
International avoirdupois ounce
Conversion Result
Conversion formula: 1 pound = 16 ounces
Calculation: 0 lb × 16 = 0.00 oz
Common Conversions
Pounds to Ounces
Ounces to Pounds
Quick Reference
Practical Examples
Shipping Package
15 lb = 240 oz
Steak Weight
12 oz = 0.75 lb
Baby Weight
7.5 lb = 120 oz
Coffee Bag
1 lb = 16 oz
Understanding Pounds and Ounces
What are Pounds and Ounces?
Pounds (lb) and ounces (oz) are units of weight measurement used in the US customary and British imperial systems. The international avoirdupois pound is the most commonly used definition today, established in 1959.
Historical Context
In 1959, the United States and countries of the Commonwealth of Nations agreed to define the international avoirdupois pound as exactly 0.45359237 kilograms. An ounce is defined as exactly 28.349523125 grams.
Why Use This Converter?
- •Cooking and baking recipes requiring precise measurements
- •Shipping and postal weight calculations
- •Baby weight tracking and pediatric care
- •Fitness and nutrition weight measurements
Conversion Formulas
Pounds to Ounces:
ounces = pounds × 16
Example: 15 lb × 16 = 240 oz
Ounces to Pounds:
pounds = ounces ÷ 16
Example: 4 oz ÷ 16 = 0.25 lb (¼ lb)
Key Fact: One pound contains exactly 16 ounces. This makes fractional conversions easy - 8 oz is half a pound, 4 oz is a quarter pound, etc.
Common Use Cases
🍳 Cooking & Baking
Recipes often list ingredients in pounds and ounces. Convert between units for accurate measurements and proper scaling of recipes.
📮 Shipping & Postal
Shipping costs depend on package weight. Converting between pounds and ounces helps calculate accurate postage rates.
💪 Fitness & Nutrition
Track portion sizes and body weight changes using both pounds and ounces for detailed progress monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert pounds to ounces?
To convert pounds to ounces, multiply the weight in pounds by 16. For example, 17 pounds × 16 = 272 ounces. This works because there are exactly 16 ounces in one pound.
How many pounds make 4 ounces?
Four ounces equals a quarter of a pound (0.25 lb). Since one pound equals 16 ounces, 4 ounces ÷ 16 = 0.25 pounds or ¼ pound.
What is the difference between avoirdupois and troy ounces?
This calculator uses avoirdupois ounces (28.35 g), which are used for everyday items. Troy ounces (31.10 g) are used for precious metals like gold and silver and are about 10% heavier than avoirdupois ounces.
How accurate is this converter?
This converter uses the exact international avoirdupois definition (1 lb = 16 oz) established in 1959. Results are mathematically precise and suitable for all practical applications including cooking, shipping, and scientific use.