A Simple Demonstration for Introducing the Metric System to Introductory Chemistry Classes

Clarke W. Earley
Department of Chemistry, Kent State University Stark Campus, Canton, OH 44720
J. Chem. Educ., 1999, 76 (9), p 1215
DOI: 10.1021/ed076p1215
Publication Date (Web): September 1, 1999
History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

A simple demonstration is described for introducing metric system prefixes and conversion between different units. The width of the classroom is defined as an arbitrarily standard of length ("room") and measured using a paper streamer. By cutting this into ten equal pieces, a deciroom measure is obtained. Centiroom and milliroom pieces are obtained in a similar manner. Conversion between this system of units and inches illustrates unit conversion calculations. This demonstration naturally leads to discussion of principles of experimental design, precision, and accuracy. While initially designed for use in large lecture halls, this demonstration has also been used successfully in classes with as few as 20 students.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Chemical Education Research

Keywords (Subject):

Learning Theories
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  • Received: August 03, 2009

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