Page 183 - Start Up Mathematics_1

Measuring Length

There are two ways of measuring length.

1. By using objects and body parts

2. By using a scale or measuring tape

When we use objects or body parts to measure length, the measurement is not

exact. This is because the lengths of all objects and body parts are not fixed. To
get exact measurements, we need fixed lengths. Centimetres and metres are the
most commonly used fixed lengths.

Centimetre

Centimetre is a small fixed length. It is written as Remember

cm in short. We use it to measure small lengths We start measuring from
of things like books, pencils, etc. the 0 mark of the ruler.

Look at the markings on your ruler. A 2 cm B

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

The markings 1, 2, 3, . . . show centimetres.

Quick Tip
Metre
To change metre into
Metre is used for measuring bigger lengths. centimetre, we multiply it
It is written as m in short. Metre is much by 100.
longer than centimetre. 3 m = 3 × 100 cm = 300 cm

100 cm = 1 m or 1 m = 100 cm

We use a metre tape or a metre scale to measure in metres. It is used to measure
lengths of things like walls, cloth, etc.

metre tape foldable metre ruler

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