What is difference between mcg and mg?

The main difference between mcg (microgram) and mg (milligram) lies in their magnitudes and the systems of measurement they belong to:

1. Magnitude:

   • 1 mcg (microgram) is equal to one millionth of a gram (1/1,000,000 g).
   • 1 mg (milligram) is equal to one thousandth of a gram (1/1,000 g or 0.001 g).
   • Therefore, 1 mg is 1000 times larger than 1 mcg.

2. System of Measurement:

   • Both mcg and mg belong to the metric system, which is widely used for scientific and medical measurements.
   • The metric system simplifies conversions, as it is based on powers of ten.

3. Common Uses:

   • Mcg (microgram): It is commonly used to measure tiny quantities, such as vitamin or mineral dosages, hormones, or other medications.
   • Mg (milligram): It is commonly used to measure small quantities, such as medication dosages, dietary supplements, or the weight of small objects.

4. Conversion:

   • To convert mcg to mg, divide the number of mcg by 1000.
   • To convert mg to mcg, multiply the number of mg by 1000.
   • For example, 500 mcg is equal to 0.5 mg (500/1000), and 2 mg is equal to 2000 mcg (2 x 1000).

It is important to be familiar with these units of measurement in order to accurately understand and interpret the quantities being measured, particularly in healthcare settings.