mm to cm Conversion Calculator
Click on the following link if you want to convert centimeters (cm) to milimeters (mm)
History
The millimeter (mm) and centimeter (cm) are both part of the metric system, introduced in France at the end of the 18th century to simplify and standardize measurements across the world.
One meter was originally defined as one ten-millionth of the distance from the equator to the North Pole. From that, the system was divided into smaller, easy-to-use units.
A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter (0.01 m), and a millimeter is one-thousandth of a meter (0.001 m). So, one centimeter equals ten millimeters.
This decimal structure makes conversions within the metric system fast and straightforward.
Common Usage
- Millimeters (mm) are used for very precise measurements, such as in engineering, machining, and design drawings.
- Centimeters (cm) are used for everyday measurements, like clothing sizes, body height, or furniture dimensions.
For example, a pencil might be 175 mm long, which is 17.5 cm.
Millimeters to Centimeters Conversion Formula
The relationship between millimeters and centimeters is simple:
cm = mm ÷ 10
Example:
Convert 120 mm to centimeters.
120 ÷ 10 = 12 cm
So, 120 millimeters equal 12 centimeters.
Conversion Table
| Millimeters (mm) | Centimeters (cm) |
|---|---|
| 1 mm | 0.1 cm |
| 5 mm | 0.5 cm |
| 10 mm | 1 cm |
| 20 mm | 2 cm |
| 50 mm | 5 cm |
| 100 mm | 10 cm |
| 150 mm | 15 cm |
| 200 mm | 20 cm |
| 500 mm | 50 cm |
| 1,000 mm | 100 cm |
Fun Facts
- There are 10 millimeters in 1 centimeter — an easy rule to remember for any metric conversion.
- Millimeters are often used in rainfall measurements in weather reports.
- A standard credit card is about 0.76 mm thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many millimeters are in one centimeter?
There are 10 millimeters in 1 centimeter.
2. How do I convert millimeters to centimeters quickly?
Just divide by 10.
3. Why do we use millimeters instead of centimeters sometimes?
Millimeters are better for precision — for example, when measuring small parts or technical drawings.
4. Is the millimeter part of the SI system?
Yes, both mm and cm are derived units of the meter, the SI base unit of length.
5. How do I convert centimeters back to millimeters?
Multiply by 10.
