🧪 CGS System of Units Converter
Translate measurements between CGS and SI units for length, mass, force, energy, and pressure.
Great for physics homework, lab reports, and engineering documentation when you cross between legacy CGS and modern SI conventions.
100 Centimeters (cm) equals
1 Meters (m)
Underlying SI quantity: Meters (m). CGS uses centimeters, grams, and seconds; SI uses meters, kilograms, and seconds.
Other Length Units
Centimeters (cm)
100
How to Use This Calculator
Select a physical quantity
Pick length, mass, force, energy, or pressure. Units are scoped to that dimension to avoid cross-contamination.
Enter the measurement and units
Type the value, then choose the CGS or SI unit you have and the unit you need.
Copy the converted result
Use the main conversion and quick references in lab reports, physics homework, or engineering change orders.
Formula
SI Value = CGS Value × Scale Factor
Converted Value = SI Value ÷ Target Scale Factor
Examples: 1 dyn = 1×10⁻⁵ N, 1 erg = 1×10⁻⁷ J, 1 Ba = 0.1 Pa.
Use the formula breakdown to confirm the calculation logic or perform the conversion manually if needed.
Full Description
The centimeter-gram-second (CGS) system predates the modern International System (SI). Many classic physics texts, fluid dynamics formulas, and astrophysics papers still reference dynes, ergs, or barye. This converter bridges those units with their SI equivalents so you can compare equations without re-deriving constants.
By focusing on key base and derived quantities, the tool keeps the interface approachable. Switching the quantity automatically adjusts the unit list, preventing accidental conversions between unrelated dimensions.
Because it uses exact scale factors, the converter preserves scientific notation and unit integrity—perfect for lab write-ups, homework, or quick sanity checks while coding simulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to pick a quantity first?
CGS and SI are coherent only within the same physical dimension. Choosing the quantity ensures you convert length to length, force to force, etc.
Can I extend this to other CGS units?
Yes. Add more units to the CGS_UNITS map in the source code, following the same pattern of scale factors.
Does it handle temperature?
CGS and SI both use kelvin for thermodynamic temperature, so a dedicated converter isn’t necessary. Add it if you need Réaumur or Rankine scales.
Why does pressure use barye instead of dyn/cm²?
Barye and dyn/cm² are equivalent. Barye is the named CGS pressure unit; selecting it clarifies the context for textbooks and lab reports.