The Metric System

Why?There are 4 main reasons why the metric system is used around the world.

No fractions Easy conversions – NO MATH! Based on factors of 10 The same prefixes for units

Prefixes

MeasurementsLength

meter (m)

Massgram (g)

Volumeliter (L)

Temperaturedegrees Celsius (˚C)

EquipmentLength

ruler, meter stick, etc.

Masstriple-beam balance, electronic balance

Volumeruler, meter stick, graduated cylinder*

Temperaturethermometer, temperature probe

Conversions

To convert from a SMALL unit to a LARGER unit …move the decimal to the LEFT

To convert from a LARGE unit to a SMALLER unit …move the decimal to the RIGHT

kilo- hecto- deka- (base unit) deci- centi- milli-

1,000 100 10 1 0.1 0.01 0.001

k h da d c m