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How to Convert Meters to Centimeters
To convert a measurement in meters to a measurement in centimeters, multiply the length by the following conversion ratio: 100 centimeters/meter.
Since one meter is equal to 100 centimeters, you can use this simple formula to convert:
centimeters = meters × 100
The length in centimeters is equal to the length in meters multiplied by 100.
For example, here's how to convert 5 meters to centimeters using the formula above.
centimeters = (5 m × 100) = 500 cm
How Many Centimeters Are in a Meter?
There are 100 centimeters in a meter, which is why we use this value in the formula above.
1 m = 100 cm
Our inch fraction calculator can add meters and centimeters together, and it also automatically converts the results to US customary, imperial, and SI metric values.
Meters and centimeters are both units used to measure length. Keep reading to learn more about each unit of measure.
What Is a Meter?
According to the most recent 2019 definition, the meter is defined as the distance traveled by light in vacuum during a time interval with a duration of 1/299,792,458 of a second.[1] One meter is equal to 100 centimeters, 3.28084 feet, or 39.37 inches.
The meter, or metre, is the SI base unit for length in the metric system. Meters can be abbreviated as m; for example, 1 meter can be written as 1 m.
Learn more about meters.
What Is a Centimeter?
One centimeter is equal to one-hundredth (1/100) of a meter, which is defined as the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second. One centimeter is equal to 0.393701 inches.
The centimeter, or centimetre, is a multiple of the meter, which is the SI base unit for length. In the metric system, "centi" is the prefix for hundredths, or 10-2. Centimeters can be abbreviated as cm; for example, 1 centimeter can be written as 1 cm.
Metric rulers typically have 30 cm, which are represented by 30 large tick marks. To get a rough idea of the actual length of a centimeter, a standard number 2 pencil is just about 1 cm thick.
Learn more about centimeters.
We recommend using a ruler or tape measure for measuring length, which can be found at a local retailer or home center. Rulers are available in imperial, metric, or a combination of both values, so make sure you get the correct type for your needs.
Need a ruler? Try our free downloadable and printable rulers, which include both imperial and metric measurements.
