Metric vs Imperial Systems
Most countries use the Metric System (meters, kilograms, Celsius), which is based on decimals. The United States, Liberia, and Myanmar primarily use the Imperial System (inches, pounds, Fahrenheit). Converting between these systems is essential for science, shipping, cooking, and travel.
Common Conversion Ratios
- Length: 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters, 1 foot = 30.48 centimeters, 1 mile = 1.609 kilometers.
- Weight: 1 pound (lb) = 0.4536 kilograms, 1 ounce (oz) = 28.35 grams.
- Temperature: Fahrenheit to Celsius:
°C = (°F - 32) * 5/9.