105 LearnersLast updated on July 10th, 2025
Imperial to Metric Conversion
We can measure the length or height of things using units like inches, centimeters, feet, meters, yards, or miles. Different units are used to measure different things. Inches and feet are part of the imperial system, whereas centimeters and meters are part of the metric system. Sometimes we need to convert between these systems to make it easier to understand sizes. In this topic, we will learn how to convert between imperial and metric units.
What is the Metric System?
The metric system is a decimal-based system of measurement that is used worldwide. It includes units such as meters, liters, and grams. The system is based on powers of 10, which simplifies unit conversions. For example, 1 meter is equal to 100 centimeters. The metric system is commonly used in science and everyday life for measuring various distances, volumes, and masses.
What is the Imperial System?
The imperial system is a system of measurements that uses units such as inches, feet, and miles for length; pounds for weight; and gallons for volume. This system is primarily used in the United States. A foot is equal to 12 inches, and a yard is equal to 3 feet or 36 inches. The symbol for feet is ft, and for inches, it is in.
Imperial to Metric Conversion Formula
To convert from imperial to metric units, we use specific conversion factors. Some common conversions are: 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters 1 foot = 0.3048 meters 1 yard = 0.9144 meters To convert from inches to centimeters, multiply by 2.54, and from feet to meters, multiply by 0.3048.
How to Convert Imperial to Metric Units?
Converting from the imperial system to the metric system involves using conversion factors. For instance, to convert inches to centimeters, multiply the number of inches by 2.54. To convert feet to meters, multiply the number of feet by 0.3048. Steps to convert feet to meters: Write down the length in feet. Multiply the value by 0.3048 to get the length in meters.
Imperial to Metric Conversion Chart
When we measure things, sometimes we use imperial units and sometimes we use metric units. We use simple conversions to understand how much something in imperial units is in metric units. Below is a chart that shows us the imperial-to-metric conversions.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Imperial to Metric Conversion
When converting between imperial and metric units, people often make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.
Mistake 1
Using the wrong conversion factor
People can get confused and use incorrect values for conversion, such as 3 instead of 2.54 for inches to centimeters.
Mistake 2
Rounding too soon
Rounding numbers too early while calculating can lead to incorrect results. For example, instead of writing 165 in × 2.54 = 419.1 cm, they might round it to 420 cm, which is not accurate.
Mistake 3
Misplacing decimal points
Misplacing the decimal point leads to incorrect values. For example, instead of writing the value for 200 inches as 508 cm, they might write it as 50.8 cm.
Mistake 4
Incorrect use of formula
Using the incorrect formula can cause errors. For example, instead of multiplying to convert inches to centimeters, they might divide. To convert from inches to centimeters, you multiply by 2.54, not divide.
Mistake 5
Misunderstanding the relationship between units
Confusion between units can occur. For example, thinking 0.5 meters equals 5 centimeters, but it actually equals 50 centimeters. Remember, 1 meter is equal to 100 centimeters.
Imperial to Metric Conversion Examples
Problem 1
Convert 3,278 inches to meters
3,278 inches = 83.3272 meters
Explanation
We know the conversion factor: 1 inch = 0.0254 meters Now, multiply 3,278 by the conversion factor: 3,278 × 0.0254 = 83.3272 meters.
Problem 2
Convert 46 feet to meters.
Solution: Converting 46 feet to meters gives us 14.02 meters.
Explanation
Use the conversion factor: 1 foot = 0.3048 meters 46 × 0.3048 = 14.0208 meters
Problem 3
A building’s height is 390 feet. What is the height in meters?
The height of the building in meters is 118.872 meters.
Explanation
Convert 390 feet to meters: 390 feet = 390 × 0.3048 = 118.872 meters
Problem 4
The fence is 72 inches tall. What is its height in centimeters?
The height in centimeters is 182.88 cm.
Explanation
Convert 72 inches to centimeters: 72 inches = 72 × 2.54 = 182.88 cm
Problem 5
Converting 990 yards to meters
990 yards = 905.256 meters
Explanation
Step 1: Use the conversion factor. 1 yard = 0.9144 meters Step 2: Multiply 990 by 0.9144. 990 × 0.9144 = 905.256 meters
FAQs on Imperial to Metric Conversion
1.How many centimeters is 1 inch?
2.What is 85 feet in meters?
3.Is 150 inches short?
4.How do I convert 100 yards to meters?
Important Glossaries for Imperial to Metric Conversion
Conversion Factor: A number used to change one set of units to another, by multiplying or dividing. Decimal: Numbers in which the whole number and fractional part are separated by a point (dot). For example, 3.5 here 3 and 5 are separated by a dot. Imperial System: A system of measurements using units such as inches, feet, and pounds. Metric System: A decimal-based system of measurement using units such as meters, liters, and grams. Rounding: Reducing the number of significant digits in a number, often to make it simpler or more convenient.
Seyed Ali Fathima S
About the Author
Seyed Ali Fathima S a math expert with nearly 5 years of experience as a math teacher. From an engineer to a math teacher, shows her passion for math and teaching. She is a calculator queen, who loves tables and she turns tables to puzzles and songs.
Fun Fact
: She has songs for each table which helps her to remember the tables
