- The International System of Units has been the accepted and most recognized metric system since the 1960s. In the United States, we use both the metric system and the American system. However, in Europe the metric system is the standard measurement system. "Meter" is derived from the Greek work "metron," which means "measure." The French Academy of Science developed the metric system by using 1/10,000,000 of the distance from the North Pole to the equator as their starting point. Initially, the ruler was a brass bar, which was later changed to a platinum bar for ease of accuracy.
- When reading a metric ruler, your measurements will be in centimeters (cm) and millimeters (mm). The larger lines on the ruler with the numbers are centimeters, and the smaller segments are millimeters. Each millimeter is 1/10 of a centimeter, so if you measure one centimeter and five millimeters, you would convert it to 1.5 centimeters. Unlike English rulers, metric rulers are easier to read since they deal with decimals instead of fractions.
- The standard size of a metric ruler is 25 centimeters long, but they can be longer or shorter, especially if you print out your own metric ruler offline. Rulers can be metal, wood, plastic or paper. It's more effective when rulers have a sharp metal edge so you can more accurately determine the measurement.
- The metric system is a standard way of measuring in Europe. However, in the United States, we use both the metric system and the English ruler, which can be confusing when it comes time to convert. Since metric rulers are divided into decimals, they are easier to read, because you don't have to do extra math to figure out the fractions as you would for an English ruler.
- To avoid human error, it's always beneficial to measure an object more than once. Accuracy is important in measurement, especially if you are trying to build something or fit an object in a certain space. To prevent error in conversions, it's effective to use a conversion calculator, which can be found online. Double checking your math is advantageous and prevents problems from arising later. You don't want to have to return a couch because it doesn't fit through your door.
