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Grad Conversion Table
This comprehensive grad conversion table shows how various units relate to grads. Use this reference for quick conversions between grads and other common angle units.
| Conversion | To Unit | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Grads to degrees | Degrees | 0.9 |
| Grads to radians | Radians | 0.015708 |
| Grads to mils | Mils | 16 |
This grad conversion reference table provides accurate conversion factors for angle measurements. All values are based on internationally recognized standards for maximum precision in scientific and engineering applications.
What is a Grad?
The grad (symbol: gon) is a unit of measurement of an angle, defined as one-hundredth of a right angle. This means that a full circle comprises 400 grads, a right angle is 100 grads, and a straight angle is 200 grads. The grad is also known as a gon, grade, or grade unit. Our grad conversion tool helps you easily convert between grads and other units. For example, 100 grads equals 90 degrees or π/2 radians.
The grad system is particularly useful in surveying, civil engineering, and some specialized fields because it simplifies calculations involving right angles. Grads are sometimes preferred in these applications because they divide a right angle into 100 equal parts, making arithmetic operations easier compared to the traditional 90 degrees.
What is the SI of Grad?
The grad is not an SI unit. The SI unit for measuring angles is the radian (rad). However, the grad is accepted for use with the SI system. The radian is the standard unit in the International System of Units and is defined as the angle subtended at the center of a circle by an arc that is equal in length to the radius of the circle. All other angle units, including grads, are related to the radian through conversion factors.
While not an SI base unit, the grad is convenient for certain applications. Our angle conversion tool provides accurate conversions between grads and SI units like radians:
- 1 grad = 0.015708 radians
- 1 radian = 63.662 grads
What are Grads Used For?
Grads are used in several specialized applications, particularly where decimal arithmetic is preferred over sexagesimal (base-60) systems. As an alternative to degrees, grads provide a more straightforward calculation method in certain fields. Our angle conversion tools help professionals work with grads in various contexts:
Surveying & Civil Engineering
Land measurement and construction projects where right angles are common. For example, calculating that a 45-degree angle equals exactly 50 grads simplifies calculations in field work.
Geology & Geography
Measuring slopes and orientations of geological features. For example, expressing the inclination of rock layers in grads rather than degrees for easier decimal calculations.
Architecture
Designing buildings and structures where right angles predominate. For example, specifying that a corner is 100 grads rather than 90 degrees in certain CAD systems.
Mathematics Education
Teaching angle concepts in some countries that prefer decimal systems. For example, explaining that a quarter turn is exactly 100 grads rather than 90 degrees for easier understanding.
Etymology and History
The grad was introduced during the French Revolution as part of the metric system. The term "grad" comes from the Latin "gradus," meaning "step" or "degree." It was designed to replace the sexagesimal degree system with a decimal system, where a right angle would be divided into 100 equal parts rather than 90 degrees.
This decimal approach to angle measurement was intended to align with the metric system's base-10 philosophy. Although the grad never gained widespread adoption in general use, it found niche applications in specialized fields like surveying and civil engineering. The grad is also known by several other names: "gon" (used in some scientific contexts), "grade" (used in French), and "gradian" (used in some calculators). Our angle conversion tools support all these naming conventions for maximum compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use grads instead of degrees?
Grads can be more convenient for calculations involving right angles since they divide a right angle into 100 equal parts (100 grads = 90 degrees). This decimal relationship simplifies arithmetic operations, especially in fields like surveying and civil engineering where right angles are common. Our angle conversion tool makes it easy to switch between these systems as needed.
How do you convert grads to degrees?
To convert grads to degrees, multiply by 0.9. For example, 100 grads equals 90 degrees (100 × 0.9 = 90). To convert degrees to grads, divide by 0.9 or multiply by 1.111... For example, 45 degrees equals 50 grads (45 ÷ 0.9 = 50). Use our grad to degree converter for instant, accurate conversions.
What is the relationship between grads and radians?
One grad equals approximately 0.015708 radians, and one radian equals approximately 63.662 grads. Since radians are the SI unit for angles, this relationship is important for scientific calculations. Our grad to radian converter handles these precise conversions automatically with full accuracy.
Where are grads commonly used today?
Grads are primarily used in surveying, civil engineering, and some specialized fields where decimal arithmetic is preferred. They're also found in some scientific calculators and CAD software. Our grad conversion tool supports these applications by providing accurate conversions between grads and other angle units used in modern practice.
Are grads the same as gons?
Yes, "grad" and "gon" refer to the same unit of angular measurement. "Grad" is the more common term in English, while "gon" is used in some scientific contexts. Both terms describe an angle equal to 1/400 of a full circle or 0.9 degrees. Our angle converter recognizes both terms for maximum compatibility.
What are some common grad measurements?
Some common grad measurements include: 0 grads (0 degrees), 100 grads (90 degrees, right angle), 200 grads (180 degrees, straight angle), 300 grads (270 degrees), and 400 grads (360 degrees, full circle). In surveying applications, angles like 50 grads (45 degrees) and 150 grads (135 degrees) are frequently encountered. Our grad conversion calculator handles all these measurements with precision.
Is the grad system still relevant?
While not as widely used as degrees or radians, the grad system remains relevant in specialized applications, particularly in surveying and civil engineering in certain countries. Its decimal nature makes it convenient for calculations involving right angles. Our grad conversion tools ensure that professionals in these fields can work with grads efficiently alongside other angle units.