How many milliliters are in 458 liters?
A 0.458 milliliters
B 45.8 milliliters
C 4,580
D 458,000
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: D. 458,000 milliliters
Explanation:
To convert liters to milliliters, we use the metric system conversion factor:
1 liter = 1,000 milliliters
This means that to convert liters to milliliters, you multiply the number of liters by 1,000.
Step-by-step conversion: 458 liters×1,000=458,000 milliliters458 \text{ liters} \times 1,000 = 458,000 \text{ milliliters}
So, 458 liters is equal to 458,000 milliliters.
Why the other options are incorrect:
- A. 0.458 milliliters – This suggests dividing instead of multiplying, which is incorrect when converting liters to milliliters.
- B. 45.8 milliliters – This is off by a factor of 10, still much too small.
- C. 4,580 milliliters – Also incorrect, underestimates the true value by a factor of 100.
Only D reflects the correct multiplication by 1,000.
Conceptual Note:
This is a fundamental unit conversion question, important in science, healthcare, and daily life (e.g., converting beverage quantities, fuel, or dosage volumes). The metric system is designed to be simple and scalable using powers of 10. Since a milliliter is a thousandth of a liter, converting from liters to milliliters simply involves shifting the decimal three places to the right (multiplying by 10³).