The Advantages of Using a Meter Stick
A meter stick measures 1 meter, the primary unit of distance in the metric system. Markings subdivide the meter stick into 100 centimeters and 1,000 millimeters. The primary alternative to the meter stick is the yardstick, which measures 3 feet, the primary unit of distance in the United States Customary System of Measures. Although meter sticks and yardsticks measure almost the same length, the international usage and ease of conversion of the metric system gives the meter stick some clear advantages.
Metric Conversion
The metric system is divisible by units of ten, which makes it simple to convert measurements in meters into other metric units. (To convert from meters to centimeters, multiply by 100; to convert from meters to kilometers, multiply by .001; etc.) United States Customary System measurements are irregular--12 inches make a foot, 3 feet make a yard and 1,760 yards make a mile--which means that conversion within this system of measurement requires more complex calculations.
International Acceptance
The metric system is the accepted form of measurement in all countries other than the United States, which uses the United States Customary System of Measures. All research science is conducted using the metric system. Meter stick measurements are instantly understood by people around the world, whereas yardstick measurements take more calculation and explanation. The meter stick is therefore the best choice for international projects.
Conversion to American System
One meter is 8.6 cm (3.37 inches) longer than a yardstick. Most American-made meter sticks measure centimeters on one side and inches on the other. Conversion from inches to centimeters is therefore a simple matter of comparing the numbers on one side of the stick with the numbers on the other. Yardsticks do not measure a full meter, making conversion more difficult.
Tags: metric system, meter stick, United States, Customary System, States Customary