Convert 42 km to cm

Converting kilometers to centimeters is a straightforward process that involves understanding the relationship between these two metric units of measurement. In this post, we will explore the definitions of kilometers and centimeters and provide a step-by-step guide to converting 42 km to cm.

km Definition

Kilometer (km) is a unit of length in the metric system equal to 1,000 meters. It is commonly used to measure long distances, such as the distance between cities or geographical features. For example, a marathon is approximately 42 km long.

cm Definition

Centimeter (cm) is a smaller unit of length in the metric system, where 1 centimeter is equal to 0.01 meters or 10 millimeters. Centimeters are often used in everyday measurements, such as height, width, and short distances, making them practical for tasks like measuring furniture or clothing sizes.

How to Convert 42 km to cm

To convert kilometers to centimeters, you can use the following formula:

1 km = 100,000 cm

Now, to convert 42 km to cm:

42 km x 100,000 cm/km = 4,200,000 cm

Therefore, 42 kilometers is equal to 4,200,000 centimeters.

FAQs

What is the relationship between kilometers and centimeters?

Kilometers and centimeters are both metric units of length, with the kilometer being a larger unit and the centimeter being a smaller unit. There are 100,000 centimeters in a kilometer.

How do I convert other distances from km to cm?

To convert any distance from kilometers to centimeters, simply multiply the number of kilometers by 100,000.

Why is it important to convert units?

Converting units is essential for accuracy in measurements, particularly in fields such as science, engineering, and everyday life, where precise measurements can significantly impact results.