Mile

Definition

A mile is a unit of length in the imperial and United States customary systems of measurement, equal to 5,280 feet or 1,609 meters. It is commonly used to measure distances, particularly for long-distance travel and navigation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The mile is a commonly used unit of measurement for distances in the United States and several other countries that use the imperial system.
2. One mile is equal to 1,609 meters or approximately 1.609 kilometers, making it a useful unit for measuring longer distances.
3. The mile is divided into 8 furlongs, 80 chains, or 1,760 yards, providing a hierarchical system of measurement.
4. The term 'mile' is derived from the Latin word 'mille,' meaning one thousand, referring to the original Roman unit of measurement.
5. The mile is often used in conjunction with other units, such as miles per hour (mph) to measure speed or miles per gallon (mpg) to measure fuel efficiency.

Review Questions

• Explain the relationship between the mile and the metric system of measurement.
  • The mile is a unit of length in the imperial system, while the metric system uses the meter as the primary unit of length. One mile is equivalent to approximately 1.609 kilometers, allowing for conversion between the two systems. Understanding the relationship between the mile and the metric system is important when working with measurements that may involve both systems, such as when comparing distances or conversions.
• Describe the hierarchical system of measurement within the mile.
  • The mile is divided into smaller units, creating a hierarchical system of measurement. One mile is equal to 8 furlongs, 80 chains, or 1,760 yards. This allows for more precise measurements within the mile, as well as the ability to break down larger distances into smaller, more manageable units. Understanding this hierarchical system is crucial when working with measurements that involve the mile and its subdivisions.
• Analyze the historical origins and evolution of the mile as a unit of measurement.
  • The mile is derived from the Latin word 'mille,' meaning one thousand, which referred to the original Roman unit of measurement. Over time, the mile has been adopted and adapted by various cultures and systems, including the imperial and United States customary systems. The mile's evolution and continued use in certain countries, despite the widespread adoption of the metric system, reflects its historical significance and the importance of understanding various systems of measurement in a global context.

Related terms

Kilometer: A metric unit of length equal to 1,000 meters, commonly used to measure longer distances.

Yard: A unit of length in the imperial and United States customary systems, equal to 3 feet or 0.9144 meters.

Foot: A unit of length in the imperial and United States customary systems, equal to 12 inches or 0.3048 meters.