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Gauss Conversion Table
This comprehensive gauss conversion table shows how various units relate to gauss, a common unit for magnetic flux density. Use this reference for quick conversions between gauss and other magnetic units.
| Conversion | To Unit | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Gauss to tesla | Tesla | 0.0001 |
| Gauss to oersted | Oersted | 1 |
This gauss conversion reference table provides accurate conversion factors between gauss and other magnetic flux density units. All values are based on internationally recognized standards for maximum precision in scientific and engineering applications.
What is a Gauss?
The gauss (symbol: G) is a unit of magnetic flux density (also known as magnetic field strength) in the CGS (centimeter-gram-second) system of units. One gauss is defined as 1 maxwell per square centimeter. In SI units, 1 gauss equals 1×10-4 tesla.
The unit is named after the German mathematician and physicist Carl Friedrich Gauss. Gauss is commonly used in applications involving weaker magnetic fields, such as the Earth's magnetic field (which measures about 0.5 gauss at the surface) or in measurements of magnetic materials. Our gauss conversion tool helps you easily convert between gauss and other units like tesla.
What is the CGS of Gauss?
The gauss is the CGS unit for magnetic flux density. It is part of the Gaussian system of units, which is a variant of the CGS system. The relationship between gauss and the SI unit tesla is fixed:
- 1 gauss (G) = 10-4 tesla (T)
- 1 tesla (T) = 10,000 gauss (G)
In vacuum, the magnetic field strength in oersted is numerically equal to the magnetic flux density in gauss, which simplifies some calculations in CGS units.
What are Gauss Used For?
Gauss are used in a wide range of applications where magnetic field measurements are required. As a CGS unit, gauss is particularly common in certain scientific fields:
Geophysics
Measuring the Earth's magnetic field, which ranges from about 0.3 to 0.6 gauss at the surface. Variations in this field help geophysicists study the Earth's core and crust.
Material Science
Evaluating the magnetic properties of materials, such as the remanence of permanent magnets or the coercivity of magnetic storage media.
Astronomy
Characterizing magnetic fields in celestial objects. For example, sunspots can have magnetic fields of several thousand gauss.
Medical Applications
In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), field strengths are often specified in tesla, but smaller field variations might be measured in gauss for precision work.
Etymology and History
The gauss was named in honor of Carl Friedrich Gauss (1777-1855), the German mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to many fields including magnetism. The unit was adopted as part of the CGS system in the 19th century when the scientific community was developing standardized units for electromagnetic measurements.
With the adoption of the SI system, the tesla became the standard unit for magnetic flux density, with 1 tesla equal to 10,000 gauss. However, gauss remains widely used in certain applications, particularly in geophysics and astronomy, where the smaller scale is more convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between gauss and tesla?
The gauss and tesla are both units of magnetic flux density, but they belong to different measurement systems. Gauss is part of the CGS system, while tesla is the SI unit. The conversion factor is 1 tesla = 10,000 gauss. Gauss is typically used for weaker fields (like Earth's magnetic field), while tesla is used for stronger fields (like MRI machines).
How do I convert gauss to tesla?
To convert gauss to tesla, multiply by 0.0001 (or divide by 10,000). For example, 500 gauss equals 0.05 tesla. You can use our gauss conversion calculator above for instant results with various precision options.
Is gauss still used today?
Yes, gauss is still widely used, especially in geophysics, astronomy, and certain engineering applications. While the SI unit tesla is preferred in most scientific literature, gauss remains common in practical applications involving weaker magnetic fields.
What is the Earth's magnetic field in gauss?
The Earth's magnetic field at the surface ranges from about 0.3 to 0.6 gauss (or 30 to 60 microtesla). This field varies by location and changes over time due to movements in the Earth's core.
How does gauss relate to oersted?
In a vacuum, the numerical value of magnetic field strength in oersted is equal to the magnetic flux density in gauss. This relationship simplifies some calculations in the CGS system, though the units measure different physical quantities (field strength vs. flux density).
Why use gauss instead of tesla?
Gauss is often preferred when dealing with weaker magnetic fields because it provides more convenient numerical values. For example, it's easier to say "the Earth's field is 0.5 gauss" than "the Earth's field is 0.00005 tesla." The choice often depends on the field of application and historical conventions.
What are typical gauss values for common magnets?
Refrigerator magnets typically have a surface field of about 50-100 gauss. Neodymium magnets can reach several thousand gauss at their surface. MRI machines operate at several tesla (tens of thousands of gauss), while the strongest laboratory magnets can reach over 1,000,000 gauss (100 tesla).
Is your gauss conversion tool free to use?
Yes, our gauss conversion calculator is completely free with no registration required. Simply enter your value, select your target unit, and get instant, accurate results. We believe precise measurement conversion should be accessible to everyone, from students learning electromagnetic units to professionals working on magnetic field applications.