Conversion Chart for Metric Units

kilo   hecto   deka   METER   deci   centi    milli

                              GRAMS

                              LITER

When moving on the metric system, you make hops to go from one to the other and that is the number of spaces the decimal point moves.  It will also move in the same direction that you made the hops.

** Remember if the decimal is not there, it is hidden behind the last digit in the number.  You may have extra zeros in front of the decimal point and behind the very last digit in the number after the decimal point. 

For example:

11 centimeters = _____ millimeters

Start on centimeters you make one hop to the right to land on millimeters, so I take the decimal that is hidden behind the last 1 and move it one spot right and then add a zero to keep it in place.  The answer will be 110 millimeters

600 centigrams =  __________ grams

Start on centigrams, hop 2 spots to the left to land on grams.  Take the hidden decimal behind the last zero move it two spots to the left which leaves you with 6 grams.

5.4 kiloliters = ____ liters

Start on kiloliters, hop 3 spots to the right to land on liters. So take the decimal and move it 3 spots to the left to leave you with 5400 liters.

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