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📐 Did You Know?

The metric system is used by almost every country except the US, Liberia, and Myanmar. Learning both systems helps when traveling or working internationally!

Understanding Measurement Systems

The world uses three main systems of measurement: Metric (SI), Imperial (British), and US Customary. The metric system, based on units of 10, is the international standard for science and is used by most countries for everyday measurements.

Measurement System Comparison

System	Used By	Base Units
Metric (SI)	195+ countries, all science	meter, kilogram, liter, celsius
Imperial	UK (partial), older generation	foot, pound, gallon (UK), fahrenheit
US Customary	United States	foot, pound, gallon (US), fahrenheit

Quick Reference: Common Conversions

Length

1 inch = 2.54 cm
1 foot = 30.48 cm
1 mile = 1.609 km
1 meter = 3.281 feet

Weight

1 pound = 0.454 kg
1 ounce = 28.35 g
1 kg = 2.205 pounds
1 stone = 6.35 kg

Volume

1 gallon (US) = 3.785 L
1 gallon (UK) = 4.546 L
1 cup = 236.6 ml
1 liter = 33.814 fl oz

Temperature

0°C = 32°F (freezing)
100°C = 212°F (boiling)
37°C = 98.6°F (body)
°F = (°C × 9/5) + 32

Why Multiple Systems Exist

Historical reasons: Imperial units evolved from ancient Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and medieval English systems.
Metric advantages: Decimal-based (powers of 10), easier calculations, consistent worldwide, preferred in science.
US resistance: High conversion costs, cultural attachment, existing infrastructure (road signs, construction).
Mixed usage: UK uses miles for roads but liters for fuel. Canada uses metric officially but imperial informally.

Precision Tips

For cooking: Use weight (grams) for dry ingredients and volume (ml) for liquids for best accuracy.
For construction: Always verify which unit system your plans use before ordering materials.
For international shipping: Convert weights to kg and dimensions to cm to avoid customs issues.
For science: Always use SI units (metric) for calculations and reporting.

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