2 Measurement Systems and Conversions Free Online FlashCards

What is the metric system based on?

The metric system is based on powers of 10.

How do you convert between larger and smaller metric units?

Multiply when converting from a larger metric unit to a smaller one; divide when converting from a smaller unit to a larger one.

What is the difference between a fluid ounce and an ounce?

A fluid ounce measures volume; an ounce measures mass. Because “oz” alone can be ambiguous, identify what quantity is being measured.

How should you orient a conversion factor?

Orient the equivalent-quantity fraction so the unwanted unit cancels and the desired unit remains.

What should you use to measure liquid medicine?

Use a properly marked oral syringe or dosing cup, not a kitchen spoon, and check that the device’s units match the prescribed dose.

Which metric base units measure mass, volume, and length?

In pharmacy, grams (g) measure mass, liters (L) measure volume, and meters (m) measure length.

What fraction of a base unit does micro- represent?

The prefix micro- means one-millionth of a base unit: $0.000001$ base unit.

How many grams are in $1$ kilogram?

$1$ kilogram equals $1{,}000$ grams.

What is a conversion factor?

It is a fraction made from equivalent quantities, so its value is $1$.

Why use dimensional analysis in a pharmacy calculation?

Dimensional analysis keeps units visible so you can check that they cancel appropriately and the calculation leaves the desired unit.

What are the common metric equivalents for a teaspoon and tablespoon?

$1$ teaspoon is $5$ mL; $1$ tablespoon is $15$ mL, or $3$ teaspoons.

What are the approximate metric equivalents of a U.S. fluid ounce and a cup?

A U.S. fluid ounce is about $30$ mL, and a cup is about $240$ mL.