Question

Convert the following metric measures by moving the decimal. \(2.2 \mathrm{mg}=\) ______ \(\mathrm{g}\)

Short answer

2.2 mg = 0.0022 g.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Unit Conversion

To convert milligrams (mg) to grams (g), recall that there are 1,000 milligrams in one gram.

Set Up Conversion Factor

The conversion factor from milligrams to grams is \(1 \, \text{g} = 1,000 \, \text{mg}\). Thus, to convert milligrams to grams, divide by 1,000.

Move the Decimal Point

Since dividing by 1,000 is equivalent to moving the decimal point three places to the left, move the decimal point in 2.2 three places to the left.

Perform the Conversion

Starting with 2.2, move the decimal three places to the left to get 0.0022. Therefore, \(2.2 \, \text{mg} = 0.0022 \, \text{g}\).

Key concepts

Unit Conversion

When dealing with measurements, unit conversion is a fundamental concept to understand. It allows us to change one specified unit of measurement into another, which is especially useful when dealing with different systems or standards. The key is knowing the conversion factor, which tells us how units relate to one another.
In our case, converting from milligrams to grams involves understanding that there are 1,000 milligrams in one gram. This conversion factor is crucial as it guides the process of converting the quantity in milligrams into grams by adjusting the value based on the conversion relationship.

Decimal Movement

When converting metric units, moving the decimal point is a simple technique to use once the conversion factor is known. Particularly in the metric system, where units are based on the number 10, moving the decimal point works efficiently.
For example, when converting from smaller units to larger units, like milligrams to grams, you divide, effectively moving the decimal point to the left. In our specific conversion of 2.2 mg to grams, you initially set the decimal point at the end of 2.2. Then, when dividing by 1,000, you move it three places to the left, resulting in 0.0022.

Metric System

The metric system is an internationally adopted system of measurement that is based on powers of 10. It includes units like meters for length, liters for volume, and grams for mass. This consistency makes unit conversion straightforward, as it merely involves adjusting the decimal place based on the prefixes.
For instance, the prefix 'milli-' indicates a factor of one-thousandth. Therefore, when you are dealing with milligrams, you are working with a unit that is one-thousandth of a gram. This understanding speeds up conversions and helps in estimating measures quickly and efficiently in scientific and everyday contexts.

Milligrams to Grams

Converting milligrams to grams is a common task in scientific calculations and everyday measurements, as it involves switching from a smaller measurement unit to a larger one within the metric system.
To achieve this conversion, remember that there are 1,000 milligrams in a gram. Thus, dividing the number of milligrams by 1,000 gives you the equivalent in grams. For example, converting 2.2 mg involves dividing 2.2 by 1,000, leading you to a result of 0.0022 grams.
This division and understanding of moving the decimal point make conversions accessible and less time-consuming, emphasizing the simplicity and functionality of the metric system.