Countries all over the world use different ways to measure things. The two main systems are the metric system and the imperial system. Let’s break them down!

Metric System

• Usage: About 95% of people in the world use the metric system.
• Countries: Most countries use this system. The only ones that don’t are the USA, Myanmar, and Liberia.
• Units: The metric system includes meters (m) for measuring length, kilograms (kg) for weight, and liters (L) for liquids.

Imperial System

• Usage: The imperial system is mainly used in the USA, where around 32% of the world's people live.
• Units: In this system, we measure length in feet (ft), weight in pounds (lbs), and liquids in gallons.

Comparing the Systems

• Conversion: To compare sizes, remember:
  • 1 inch is about 2.54 centimeters.
  • 1 mile is roughly 1.61 kilometers.
• Adoption: In the UK, they use both systems. The metric system is standard for science and business, but you’ll see imperial units on road signs.

Knowing how these measurement systems work is really important. It helps people from different countries work together in science, trade, and even in everyday life!