Length Unit Conversion

FAQ

• How do I convert between metric and imperial length units?
  The key conversion is: 1 inch = 2.54 cm (exactly). From this: 1 foot = 30.48 cm, 1 yard = 0.9144 m, 1 meter = 39.37 inches. For example, to convert 5 feet to meters: 5 × 30.48 = 152.4 cm = 1.524 m.
• What is the difference between micrometers and microns?
  Micrometer (μm) and micron are the same unit - both equal 10⁻⁶ meters. "Micron" is the older term, while "micrometer" is the official SI unit name. Both are commonly used in engineering and science.
• When should I use different length units?
  Use millimeters for precision machining, micrometers for surface finish, nanometers for semiconductor work, inches for US manufacturing, feet for construction, yards for textiles, and meters for general engineering and scientific work.
• What is a mil and how does it relate to other units?
  A mil (also called thou) is 1/1000 of an inch = 0.001 inch = 0.0254 mm = 25.4 micrometers. It's commonly used in electronics (PCB thickness), coatings (paint thickness), and precision manufacturing.
• How accurate are length unit conversions?
  The conversions use exact international definitions. For example, 1 inch = exactly 2.54 cm by definition since 1959. The calculator maintains high precision suitable for engineering, scientific, and manufacturing applications.
• What are common applications for different length scales?
  Nanometers: semiconductor features, molecular dimensions. Micrometers: cell biology, surface roughness. Millimeters: mechanical parts, electronics. Centimeters: everyday measurements. Meters: construction, surveying. The right unit depends on the scale and precision needed.