Write the abbreviation for each of the following units:a. milligram

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the prefix 'milli-' which is commonly used in the metric system.
2. Understand that 'milli-' denotes a factor of 10^-3 or 1/1000.
3. Recognize that the base unit for mass in the metric system is 'gram'.
4. Combine the prefix 'milli-' with the base unit 'gram' to form the unit 'milligram'.
5. The abbreviation for 'milligram' is 'mg'.

Key Concepts

Units of Measurement

Units of measurement are standardized quantities used to express physical properties. In chemistry, common units include grams, liters, and moles, which help quantify substances and their concentrations. Understanding these units is essential for accurate calculations and communication of scientific data.

Metric System

The metric system is an internationally adopted decimal system of measurement based on powers of ten. It includes units such as meters for length, liters for volume, and grams for mass. The milligram (mg) is a subunit of the gram, representing one-thousandth of a gram, and is commonly used in chemistry for measuring small quantities.

Abbreviations in Science

Abbreviations are shortened forms of words or phrases used for convenience and clarity in scientific communication. In chemistry, common abbreviations include 'mg' for milligram, 'g' for gram, and 'L' for liter. Knowing these abbreviations is crucial for interpreting scientific literature and performing calculations efficiently.