Question

Convert the following to the equivalent measures indicated. \(5 \mathrm{~mL}=\)______ \(\mathrm{L}\)

Short answer

5 mL is 0.005 L.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Problem

The task is to convert a measurement given in milliliters (mL) to liters (L). We begin by recalling the relationship between these two units of volume.

Unit Conversion Knowledge

We need to know how milliliters relate to liters. The relationship is that 1 liter (L) is equal to 1000 milliliters (mL). This conversion factor is crucial for solving the problem.

Setting Up the Conversion

To convert 5 mL to liters, use the known relationship. We set up a conversion equation: \[\text{Volume in L} = \frac{\text{Volume in mL}}{1000}\].

Performing the Calculation

Apply the conversion formula: \[\text{Volume in L} = \frac{5\text{ mL}}{1000} = 0.005\text{ L}\]. This means that 5 mL is equivalent to 0.005 liters.

Conclusion

Based on the conversion calculation, 5 mL is equal to 0.005 L. Every calculation step shows consistency in applying the conversion factor from mL to L.

Key concepts

Milliliters to Liters

Converting milliliters to liters is a common task in volume measurement. This conversion is crucial in many scientific and everyday applications, especially when dealing with liquids. Understanding this conversion helps to simplify these tasks and make precise measurements.

To convert milliliters (mL) to liters (L), you need to know the conversion factor, which is the relationship between these two units of volume. It is important to know that "milli" in milliliters indicates a factor of thousand, which means 1 liter is equal to 1000 milliliters. This provides a simple and powerful way to switch between the two units.

For example, if you have a volume of 5 milliliters and want to convert it into liters, you divide by 1000. This tells you that 5 milliliters is equivalent to 0.005 liters.

Volume Measurement

Volume measurement refers to determining the amount of space occupied by a liquid, solid, or gas. In the metric system, volume is typically measured in liters and milliliters. Understanding these units plays a critical role in science, cooking, engineering, and everyday life.

**Understanding Metrics of Volume:**

• Liter (L) - a base unit for liquid volume in the metric system.
• Milliliter (mL) - 1/1000th of a liter, often used for smaller liquid amounts.

Measuring accurately involves selecting the right unit for the scale of the volume you are dealing with. For instance, in medical prescriptions, milliliters might be more appropriate, while in beverage manufacturing, liters could be the preferred unit.

Conversion Factor

A conversion factor is a numerical value used to change from one set of units to another. It is essential in ensuring that measurements across different systems or scales are consistent and accurate.

In the case of milliliters to liters, the conversion factor is 1000. This means that 1 liter is equal to 1000 milliliters. Knowing this factor allows you to convert any given volume in milliliters to liters by dividing by 1000.

For practical use, understand that:

• If converting from milliliters to liters, divide the number of milliliters by 1000.
• For converting from liters to milliliters, multiply the number of liters by 1000.

Using this conversion factor correctly ensures precise and reliable calculations in various applications.

Mathematical Calculation

Mathematical calculations are necessary for converting units, particularly in volume measurement. By following a structured approach, you will be able to achieve accurate results every time.

Here’s how you can perform the conversion calculation: Start by writing down the measurement that you have in milliliters. For example, let's say you have 5 mL. To convert this to liters, use the formula:

\[\text{Volume in L} = \frac{\text{Volume in mL}}{1000}\]

This formula divides the number of milliliters by 1000 to provide the equivalent in liters. By inserting the values, you find that 5 mL equals 0.005 L. Understanding and applying this straightforward calculation method allows for an easy transition between units of measurement.