Conversions in the metric system involve multiplying or dividing by powers of what number?

In the metric system, conversions rely on a base of ten, meaning that all measurements are scaled by powers of ten. This system is designed for simplicity and ease of use; for example, you can move from millimeters to meters by dividing by 1,000 (or 10^3), and from meters to kilometers by multiplying by 1,000 (or 10^3). This consistency allows for straightforward calculations and conversions, which is one of the primary advantages of the metric system in scientific and everyday use. Since the entire system is built upon this base, understanding that conversions involve powers of ten is fundamental to the metric system's practicality and efficiency.