Write the numerical value for each of the following prefixes:a. centi

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the prefix 'centi' and its meaning in the metric system.
2. Recall that 'centi' is a metric prefix that denotes a factor of 10^-2.
3. Understand that this means 'centi' represents one hundredth of a unit.
4. Express the numerical value of 'centi' as 0.01.
5. Use this knowledge to convert measurements involving the 'centi' prefix by multiplying by 0.01.

Key Concepts

Metric Prefixes

Metric prefixes are standardized terms used in the metric system to denote specific powers of ten. They allow for the easy representation of large or small quantities by modifying the base unit. For example, 'centi-' indicates a factor of one hundredth (10^-2), making it easier to express measurements like centimeters instead of meters.

Centi-

The prefix 'centi-' is derived from the Latin word 'centum,' meaning one hundred. In the metric system, it represents a factor of 0.01 or 10^-2. This means that one centimeter is equal to one hundredth of a meter, which is a fundamental conversion in measurements involving length.

Base Units in the Metric System

Base units in the metric system are the fundamental units from which all other units are derived. For length, the base unit is the meter. Understanding how prefixes like 'centi-' modify these base units is essential for converting and comparing measurements accurately in scientific contexts.