Question

A client's wound measures \(41 \mathrm{~mm}\). How many centimeters is this? _______ \(\mathrm{cm}\)

Short answer

The wound is 4.1 cm.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Conversion Factor

To convert millimeters to centimeters, know the basic conversion factor: 1 centimeter (cm) is equal to 10 millimeters (mm).

Set Up the Conversion

Use the conversion factor to set up the equation. Since 1 cm = 10 mm, we need to divide the number of millimeters by 10 to convert it to centimeters. Therefore, if the wound measures 41 mm, the equation is: 41 mm ÷ 10 = X cm.

Perform the Conversion Calculation

Divide the given number of millimeters, 41 mm, by 10. This calculation is: 41 ÷ 10 = 4.1 cm.

State the Result

The wound measurement converted from millimeters to centimeters is 4.1 centimeters.

Key concepts

Millimeters to Centimeters

Converting measurements in millimeters to centimeters is a common task in everyday life, especially in healthcare, engineering, and crafts.
Millimeters (mm) and centimeters (cm) are both units of length that belong to the metric system. It is essential to know how to convert between these units accurately to ensure precision in measurements. A millimeter is a smaller unit compared to a centimeter. Specifically, 10 millimeters are equal to 1 centimeter. When you have a measurement in millimeters and need to convert it to centimeters, you divide the number of millimeters by 10. This is because 1 cm equals 10 mm, a fundamental concept in the metric system.
For example, if you have 41 mm, converting this to centimeters involves performing the calculation: \[ 41 \text{ mm} \div 10 = 4.1 \text{ cm} \] In this case, 41 millimeters is equivalent to 4.1 centimeters.

Unit Conversion Factor

Understanding the unit conversion factor is crucial for converting measurements effectively. A conversion factor is a ratio used to change one unit to another. In the metric system, these factors simplify calculations because the system is based on powers of ten. For converting millimeters to centimeters, the conversion factor is 10. This means that one centimeter is equivalent to ten millimeters. When using a conversion factor, you multiply or divide the measurement by this factor to convert between units.
Here’s how it works:

• Identify the current unit (millimeters) and the desired unit (centimeters).
• Use the conversion factor: 1 cm = 10 mm.
• Divide the number of millimeters by 10 to convert to centimeters.

With this conversion factor, converting 41 mm to centimeters becomes straightforward with the simple division: 41 ÷ 10, resulting in 4.1 cm.

Measurement Conversion

Measurement conversion is a fundamental skill that enhances accuracy and efficiency across various fields. It involves switching between different units to ensure compatibility and correctness in documentation and application. Measurement conversion in the metric system, like converting millimeters to centimeters, is streamlined due to its base-10 structure. This means that you multiply or divide by powers of ten based on the units.
For example:

• To convert millimeters to centimeters, divide by 10.
• Conversely, to convert centimeters to millimeters, multiply by 10.

This consistent method aids in avoiding errors while working with measurements. To convert 41 mm to centimeters, you divide by the unit conversion factor, resulting in a measurement of 4.1 cm. This precision ensures clear communication and adherence to standards.