cm to mm Conversion Calculator
Click on the following link if you want to convert millimeters to centimeters – mm to cm
History
The centimeter and millimeter are both metric units that were established during the creation of the metric system in France in the 1790s. The goal was to replace the many confusing local systems of measurement with one universal, logical system based on powers of ten.
The meter became the base unit of length, and from it came smaller units:
1 centimeter = 0.01 meters
1 millimeter = 0.001 meters
This makes the relationship between them simple and exact: 1 cm = 10 mm.
Common Usage
- Centimeters (cm) are used in everyday life: for measuring height, width, or clothing sizes.
- Millimeters (mm) are used where precision matters, such as in construction, engineering, or technical design.
For instance, a piece of paper is about 210 mm wide and 297 mm tall (A4 size), which is 21 × 29.7 cm.
Centimeters to Millimeters Conversion
The conversion is extremely simple:
mm = cm × 10
Example:
Convert 15 cm to millimeters.
15 × 10 = 150 mm
So, 15 centimeters equal 150 millimeters.
Conversion Table
| Centimeters (cm) | Millimeters (mm) |
|---|---|
| 0.5 cm | 5 mm |
| 1 cm | 10 mm |
| 2 cm | 20 mm |
| 5 cm | 50 mm |
| 10 cm | 100 mm |
| 15 cm | 150 mm |
| 20 cm | 200 mm |
| 25 cm | 250 mm |
| 50 cm | 500 mm |
| 100 cm | 1,000 mm |
Fun Facts
- Both mm and cm are decimal-based, which makes conversions between them instant and error-free.
- Rainfall is often recorded in millimeters because it allows for precise tracking.
- Architects and engineers prefer millimeters to avoid using decimals in their measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many millimeters are in one centimeter?
There are 10 mm in 1 cm.
2. How do I convert cm to mm quickly?
Multiply by 10.
3. Why are both units used in the metric system?
Centimeters are easier for general use, while millimeters are better for precision.
4. Is 1 cm longer or shorter than 1 mm?
1 cm is longer – it equals 10 mm.
5. How do I convert mm back to cm?
Divide by 10.
