Micrometre

Unit of length in the metric system

Unit system	SI
Unit of	Length
Symbol	μm
Named after

A micrometre (international spelling as used by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures; SI symbol: μm) or micrometer (American spelling), also commonly known as a micron, is a unit of length in the metric system equal to one millionth of a metre (0.000001 m). The micrometre is a common unit of measurement in science, engineering, and technology for measuring small distances and thicknesses.

History

The term "micron" and the symbol "μ" were officially accepted between 1879 and 1967, but the term "micrometre" and the symbol "μm" have been the official terms since the International System of Units (SI) was established in 1960.

Applications

Micrometres are used in various fields such as biology, physics, engineering, and material science. For example, in biology, cell sizes are often measured in micrometres. In physics, wavelengths of infrared radiation are often measured in micrometres. In engineering, the precision of manufacturing processes is often measured in micrometres.

Measurement Tools

Tools used to measure micrometres include the micrometer screw gauge, calipers, and optical microscopes. These tools are essential in fields requiring high precision measurements.

Related Units

• Nanometre (nm) - One billionth of a metre (1×10⁻⁹ m)
• Millimetre (mm) - One thousandth of a metre (1×10⁻³ m)
• Centimetre (cm) - One hundredth of a metre (1×10⁻² m)

See Also

• Metric system
• International System of Units
• Length
• Measurement

Micrometre gallery

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  How big is 1 micrometer?