Centimeters to Millimeters (cm to mm) and Millimeters to Centimeters (mm to cm) Conversion

Feel free to convert centimeters to millimeters (cm to mm) and millimeters to centimeters (cm to mm) using our conversion chart and conversion calculator, and learn the relationship between these two units.

Conversion of centimeters to millimeters (cm to mm) and millimeters to centimeters (mm to cm) is an easy one since both units are used for measuring length or distance.

Centimeters to Millimeters and Millimeters to Centimeters Conversion Calculators

To convert centimeters to millimeters (cm to mm) and millimeters to centimeters, feel free to use the following calculators:

How To Convert Centimeters to Millimeters and Millimeters to Centimeters

The relationship between centimeters and millimeters is as follows:

1 cm = 10 mm → 1 mm = 1 / 10 cm = 0.1 cm

Both units are units of SI system, and their values expressed in meters are:

1 centimeter = 10^-2 meter = 0.01 meter

1 millimeter = 10^-3 meter = 0.001 meter

For the cm to mm and mm to cm conversion table, check this article below "Brief History of Centimeters and Millimeters" section.

Brief History of Centimeters and Millimeters

The centimeter and millimeter, integral units of length in the metric system, are ubiquitous in daily life and scientific measurements alike.

Their development and standardization are milestones in the history of measurement, reflecting humanity's quest for precision and universality in quantifying the physical world.

Origins of the Metric System

The story of centimeters and millimeters begins with the advent of the metric system in the late 18th century. The metric system was conceived during the French Revolution, a period marked by a fervent desire for reform and standardization.

Before its introduction, myriad measurement systems existed, varying not only from one country to another but also within regions of the same country. This lack of uniformity in measures was cumbersome for trade, science, and engineering.

The French Academy of Sciences was tasked with developing a new, rational system of measurement. Their goal was to create a system based on natural, universal constants that could be used globally. In 1791, they proposed the meter as the fundamental unit of length. It was defined as one ten-millionth of the distance from the North Pole to the Equator along the meridian through Paris.

Introduction of Centimeters and Millimeters

The meter was further subdivided into decimeters, centimeters, and millimeters to facilitate measurements of smaller lengths. A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter, and a millimeter is one-thousandth of a meter. These subdivisions were introduced to provide a comprehensive range of units that could be applied in various contexts, from architecture and engineering to everyday measurements.

Standardization and the International System of Units (SI)

The adoption of the metric system spread gradually throughout the world, with countries recognizing the benefits of a uniform system of measurement. However, the precise definition of the meter itself evolved.

In 1875, the Metre Convention was signed by 17 nations, including France and the United States, establishing an international framework for the standardization of measurements. This led to the creation of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), which was tasked with ensuring uniformity in the definition and application of the metric system.

The original meter standard, a platinum-iridium bar representing the meter, was replaced in 1960 by a definition based on the wavelength of krypton-86 radiation. This change marked a shift towards defining units based on unchanging physical constants rather than physical artifacts. In 1983, the meter was redefined as the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 seconds, a definition that remains in use today.

The centimeter and millimeter, as subdivisions of the meter, are defined relative to this standard. Their use is endorsed by the International System of Units (SI), which was established in 1960 to provide a comprehensive and coherent system of measurements. The SI promotes the use of the meter as the base unit of length, with the centimeter and millimeter serving as convenient smaller units for various applications.

Few Final Words

The development and standardization of centimeters and millimeters reflect the progression towards a more rational and universal system of measurement.

From their origins in the revolutionary fervor of late 18th-century France to their current status as essential components of the SI, these units of length demonstrate the power of collective agreement and scientific innovation in shaping how we understand and interact with the world around us. Their story is a testament to humanity's enduring pursuit of precision, order, and universality in measurement.

Centimeters to Millimeters and Millimeters to Centimeters Conversion Table

To quickly convert centimeters to millimeters (cm to mm) and millimeters to centimeters, feel free to use the following conversion table:

If You wish to convert values that are not in the table, please use the conversion calculators.