Metric Units of Capacity and Mass
The metric system measures capacity in liters (L) and milliliters (mL), and mass in kilograms (kg), grams (g), and milligrams (mg), all based on factors of 1,000, as taught in Grade 4 Pengi Math. One liter equals 1,000 milliliters; one kilogram equals 1,000 grams; one gram equals 1,000 milligrams. Because the metric system is base-10, conversions only require multiplying or dividing by 1,000, making it far more systematic than the customary system. This foundational skill supports measurement problem-solving and real-world science applications.
Key Concepts
The metric system measures capacity using liters (L) and milliliters (mL) , and mass using kilograms (kg) , grams (g) and milligrams(mg) . The relationships are based on the number 1,000.
Capacity: 1 liter is 1,000 times larger than 1 milliliter.
Common Questions
How many milliliters are in a liter?
There are 1,000 milliliters in 1 liter. To convert liters to milliliters, multiply by 1,000. To convert milliliters to liters, divide by 1,000.
How many grams are in a kilogram?
There are 1,000 grams in 1 kilogram. The prefix ‘kilo-’ always means 1,000 in the metric system.
What is the difference between mass and weight?
Mass is the amount of matter in an object (measured in kg or g). Weight is the force of gravity on that mass and can change depending on location (like the Moon vs. Earth).
How do metric prefix relationships work?
The prefix ‘milli-’ means 1/1,000 of the base unit, and ‘kilo-’ means 1,000 times the base unit. So 1 liter = 1,000 mL and 1 kg = 1,000 g.
Why is the metric system easier than the customary system?
Metric conversions only involve multiplying or dividing by powers of 10 (usually 1,000), while customary units use irregular relationships like 16 ounces per pound or 3 feet per yard.