Centimeter (cm)

Definition

The centimeter (cm) is a metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter. It is an SI unit, officially defined as 0.01 meters.

History

The centimeter was introduced in the late 18th century during the French Revolution's metrication process. The metric system was adopted in France in 1795, standardizing measurements for scientific and everyday use. The centimeter became widely accepted in the 20th century as countries transitioned to the metric system.

Uses

Centimeters are commonly used in everyday life, particularly in countries using the metric system. They are prevalent in fields such as engineering, architecture, and textiles. For example, clothing sizes, furniture dimensions, and height measurements are often expressed in centimeters.

Conversions

• 1 cm = 10 millimeters (mm)
• 1 cm = 0.01 meters (m)
• 1 inch = 2.54 cm (exact)

Fun Facts

• A common misconception is that the centimeter is the smallest unit of measurement, but it can be divided into millimeters.
• The centimeter is often used in sports, particularly in track and field, for measuring short distances.