Final answer:
The conversion between basic and derived units in the metric system is based on factors of 10, facilitated by metric prefixes that adjust the base units for various scales of measurement, distinguishing it from systems like the U.S. customary system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The conversion between basic units and derived units in the metric system is based on factors of 10. This system, also known as the International System of Units (SI units), simplifies calculations and unit conversions by using a decimal system.
Each metric prefix represents a specific factor of 10 which modifies the base unit, making it possible to express very large or very small measurements in a concise way.
For example, a kilometer (km) is 1000 meters (m), and a millimeter (mm) is 0.001 meters. The choice of a decimal-based system for unit conversion is what distinguishes the metric system from others, such as the U.S. customary system, which uses unrelated conversion factors.