How to Convert Cubic Microns to Milliliters

The micron, or micrometer (um), is a metric unit of length. It equals exactly one thousandth of a millimeter or one millionth of a meter. Scientists use microns to measure the dimensions of objects too small to be seen without a microscope. Bacteria, for example, range in size from 5 to 20 microns. Red blood cells are approximately 6 to 10 microns in diameter. Cubic microns are a unit of volume. A cube with sides the length of 3 microns would have a volume of 27 cubic microns (3 x 3 x 3 = 27). Converting cubic microns to milliliters, another metric unit of volume, is easy if you enjoy working with very large or very small numbers.

Things You'll Need

• Scientific calculator

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Write the value in cubic microns (um^3) you want to analyze. For example, write: 773,000 cubic microns.

   • 2

     Multiply the number you have written by 1 x 10^(-12) using a scientific calculator to convert your value to cubic centimeters (cm^3). For example, 773,000 x 1 x 10^(-12) = 7.73 x 10^(-7). A value of 773,000 cubic microns equals 7.73 x 10^(-7) cubic centimeters.

   • 3

     Note that 1 cubic centimeter equals 1 milliliter (ml) by definition. By definition, your value of 7.73 x 10^(-7) cubic centimeters equals 7.73 x 10^(-7) milliliters.

   • 4

     Write your answer using the correct units. For example, write: 773,000 cubic microns = 7.73 x 10^(-7) milliliters.