A short ton is a unit of weight commonly used in the United States, equivalent to 2,000 pounds. It is often used in industries such as construction and shipping to measure materials like gravel, coal, and other bulk goods. The short ton is distinct from other ton measurements, such as the long ton used in the United Kingdom, which equals 2,240 pounds. In the metric system, the short ton is approximately 907.185 kilograms. Understanding the short ton is important for accurate weight conversions and calculations in various fields, including engineering and logistics, where precise measurements are crucial for efficiency and safety.