Measurement & Units
The science of quantifying the physical world. Convert metric lengths, calculate elapsed time, and master area, volume, and temperature scales.
Expert Answer & Key Takeaways
The science of quantifying the physical world. Convert metric lengths, calculate elapsed time, and master area, volume, and temperature scales.
1. The Metric System (KHDMDCM)
A base-10 system for length, mass, and capacity.
- Kilo (1000) > Hecto (100) > Deca (10)
- Meter/Gram/Liter (1)
- Deci (0.1) > Centi (0.01) > Milli (0.001)
Example:
Q: Convert 5.4 Kilometers into Centimeters.
Solution: Km → Hm → Dam → m → dm → cm (5 jumps right = × 100,000). 5.4 × 100,000 = 540,000 cm.
2. Time Arithmetic
Time is a base-60 system (Sexagesimal), not base-10!
- 1 Hour = 60 Mins. 1 Min = 60 Secs.
- Elapsed Time: Target Time − Start Time. Borrowing 1 hour means adding 60 minutes, not 100!
Example:
Q: Subtract 2 hrs 45 mins from 5 hrs 20 mins.
Solution: 5:20 becomes 4:80 (borrowed 1 hr = 60 mins). Now, 4:80 − 2:45 = 2:35 (2 hrs 35 mins).
3. Temperature Scales
Converting heat measurements.
- Celsius (°C) to Fahrenheit (°F): F = (95 × C) + 32
- Fahrenheit to Celsius: C = (F - 32) × 59
Example:
Q: Convert Human Body Temp 37°C to Fahrenheit.
Solution: F = (9/5 × 37) + 32 = (66.6) + 32 = 98.6°F.
4. Area and Volume Conversions
When units are squared or cubed, the conversion factor is also squared or cubed.
- 1 m = 100 cm
- 1 m2 = 100 × 100 = 10,000 cm2
- 1 m3 = 1,000,000 cm3 (1000 Liters)
Example:
Q: A rug is 2m × 3m. What is its area in cm2?
Solution: Area = 6 m2. Multiply by 10,000 = 60,000 cm2.
Course4All Editorial Board
Verified ExpertSubject Matter Experts
Comprising experienced educators and curriculum specialists dedicated to providing accurate, exam-aligned preparation material.
Pattern: 2026 Ready
Updated: Weekly
Found an issue or have a suggestion?
Help us improve! Report bugs or suggest new features on our Telegram group.