Final answer:
To convert from a larger unit to a smaller unit in the metric system, you should multiply and move the decimal point to the right. For example, to convert meters to millimeters, you multiply by 1,000. Conversely, converting from a smaller unit to a larger unit requires dividing and moving the decimal point to the left.
Step-by-step explanation:
When converting from a larger unit to a smaller unit in the metric system, you should multiply and move the decimal point to the right. The metric system is a base-10 system, which makes conversions between units straightforward. For example, there are 1,000 millimeters in a meter. So if you want to convert 1 meter to millimeters, you would multiply 1 by 1,000, which gives you 1,000 millimeters, effectively moving the decimal point three places to the right (1.0 to 1,000).
Conversely, when you go from a smaller unit to a larger unit, you need to divide and move the decimal point to the left. For instance, to convert 60,000 milliliters to liters, since there are 1,000 milliliters in a liter, you divide 60,000 by 1,000, which gives you 60 liters, moving the decimal point three places to the left (60,000 to 60).
It's important to ensure both measurements are in the same unit before comparing or performing calculations. Whether you're working with lengths, capacities, or masses in the metric system, the process for conversion involves multiplying or dividing by powers of 10, consistently with the base-10 nature of the system.