To convert pounds to tons, you can use the conversion factor that 1 ton is equal to 2,000 pounds.
Now, divide the total pounds by the number of pounds in a ton:
\[ \text{Tons} = \frac{48,000 \text{ pounds}}{2,000 \text{ pounds/ton}} = 24 \text{ tons} \]
So, there are 24 tons in 48,000 pounds.