How to Use Metric Length

The metric system is the primary system of measurement throughout the world, and it is heavily used in all but a few countries. Metric measurements are based on factors of ten, allowing for easy calculation -- for example, 1 centimeter equaling 10 millimeters -- as opposed to more varied differences in imperial measurement, such as 1 foot equaling 12 inches. Because most of the world uses the metric system, people in non-metric areas should be at least somewhat familiar with its use.

Things You'll Need

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Convert inches into centimeters by multiplying the number of inches by 2.54. For example, 3 inches equals 7.62 centimeters.

   • 2

     Convert feet into meters by multiplying the number of feet by 0.3048. For example, 6 feet equals 1.8288 meters.

   • 3

     Convert yards into meters by multiplying the number of yards by 0.9144. For example, 3 yards equals 2.7432 meters.

   • 4

     Convert miles into kilometers by multiplying the number of miles by 1.6093. For example, 5 miles equals 8.0465 kilometers.