Metric System, Unit Conversions, and Density

These vocabulary flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to units of measurement, conversions, and medical calculations.

Significant Figures

Digits in a measurement that carry meaning contributing to its precision.

Metric System

A system of measurement based on meters, liters, and grams as base units.

International System of Units (SI)

An extension of the metric system that is widely used for scientific measurements.

Conversion Factor

A ratio used to convert from one unit to another by multiplying or dividing.

Cubic Centimeter (cc)

A unit of volume equivalent to one milliliter.

Mili

A prefix in the metric system denoting a factor of one thousandth (1/1000).

Centi

A prefix in the metric system denoting a factor of one hundredth (1/100).

Deci

A prefix in the metric system denoting a factor of one tenth (1/10).

Kilo

A prefix in the metric system denoting a factor of one thousand (1000).

Density

The mass per unit volume of a substance, commonly expressed in grams per milliliter.

Specific Gravity

The ratio of the density of a substance to the density of a reference substance, usually water.

Volume Displacement

A method for measuring the volume of an irregular object by measuring the change in water level.

Base Units in Metric

Fundamental quantities from which other units are derived, such as meters, liters, and grams.

Conversion Relationship

A defined ratio between two different units, for example, 1 liter = 1000 milliliters.

Exact Number

A value that has no uncertainty, used in conversion factors and defined values.

Medical Dosage Calculation

The process of calculating the correct amount of medication based on the patient's weight.

Prefix

A component placed before a unit to indicate a multiplication factor.

Milligram

One thousandth of a gram, often used in medication dosages.

Unit Analysis

A method of solving problems by focusing on units of measurement to ensure correct conversions.