Decameter: Unit of Length

A decameter (symbol: dam) is a unit of length in the metric system. It is defined as ten meters.

Relationship to the Meter

The prefix "deca-" indicates a factor of ten. Therefore, one dam is equivalent to 10 m. This relationship is fundamental to understanding its place within the International System of Units (SI).

Usage and Context

While not as commonly used as kilometers or meters, the dam finds application in specific contexts where describing distances in increments of ten meters is relevant. This might include certain engineering specifications, land surveying calculations (although larger units are more typical), or educational exercises related to metric system conversions.

Conversion to Other Units

• 1 dam = 10 meters (m)
• 1 dam = 1000 centimeters (cm)
• 1 dam = 10,000 millimeters (mm)
• 1 dam = 0.01 kilometers (km)
• 1 dam ≈ 32.8084 feet (ft)
• 1 dam ≈ 10.9361 yards (yd)
• 1 dam ≈ 0.00621371 miles (mi)

Position within the Metric System

The decameter occupies a specific position in the hierarchy of metric units, demonstrating the decimal-based scaling of the system. It is larger than a meter but smaller than a hectometer (100 meters) and kilometer (1000 meters). This structured scaling facilitates straightforward conversions between units of length.