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Mathematics LibreTexts

5: Measurements

  • Page ID
    35428
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    • 5.1: Unit Conversion - American System
      In this section we will develop a technique for converting units used in the American system. We begin with a discussion of common measurements of length in the United States.
    • 5.2: Unit Conversion- Metric System
      The metric system of units is the standard system of units preferred by scientists. It is based on the base ten number system and its decimal format is more friendly to users of this system. There is a common set of prefixes adopted by the metric system to indicate a power of ten to apply to the base unit.
    • 5.3: American Units to Metric Units and Vice-Versa
      We often need to convert from the American system of units to the metric system of units or vice-versa (imagine traveling to a European country using the metric system). That will be our focus in this section.
    • 5.4: How to Measure With Micrometer
      A micrometer is an essential tool for taking precise measurements. It has a precision of 0.01 mm and if you ever aspire to make something with tight tolerance you will probably need to use it. We will have a look at how to use a traditional analog micrometer and how to read the dimension correctly.
    • 5.5: How to Read a Vernier (Caliper)
    • 5.6: How to Read a Water Meter
    • 5.7: How to Read Residential Electric and Natural Gas Meters
      You can read your own meters to help monitor your electric or gas energy use. During the heating season, your energy use should be compared to the number of heating degree days for the same time period; during the cooling season, compare your energy use to the number of cooling degree days.


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