Decigram: meaning, definitions and examples

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decigram

 

[ˈdɛsɪˌɡræm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

weight measurement

A decigram is a metric unit of mass that is equal to one-tenth of a gram. It is commonly used in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry and biology, for measuring small quantities of substances. In the metric system, larger units such as grams and kilograms are often used, but the decigram allows for greater precision when dealing with tiny samples. This unit is not frequently seen in everyday life, but it is essential in various professional fields. The abbreviation for decigram is 'dg'.

Synonyms

dag, gram, weight unit.

Examples of usage

  • The sample weighed 5 decigrams.
  • You need 10 decigrams of the reagent for the experiment.
  • The recipe calls for 3 decigrams of sugar.
  • The balance showed an error of 1 decigram.
  • Each decigram represents a specific weight in our calculations.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term combines 'deci-', a Latin prefix meaning ten, and 'gram', from the Greek word 'gramma' meaning weight.
  • It was defined in the 18th century as part of the metric system, which aimed for standardization in measurements.

Science

  • One decigram equals 0.1 grams, which is useful in chemistry for measuring small quantities of substances.
  • Scientists often use decigrams for precise measurements in laboratory settings, especially in preparing solutions.

Everyday Usage

  • Though rarely used in everyday shopping, it can be important in fields like cooking, where precision is vital.
  • Decigrams may be found in nutrition labels, especially for listing tiny amounts of certain vitamins or minerals.

Cultural References

  • The metric system, which includes decigrams, is used by nearly every country in the world, showcasing its global acceptance.
  • Scientists and educators advocate for using the metric system over the imperial system for its simplicity and ease of conversion.

History

  • The metric system was first introduced in France during the French Revolution to replace complicated regional measurements.
  • Decigrams were developed as part of a movement towards uniformity in scientific communication and calculations.

Translations

Translations of the word "decigram" in other languages:

🇵🇹 decigrama

🇮🇳 डेसिग्राम

🇩🇪 Dezigramm

🇮🇩 desigram

🇺🇦 десиграм

🇵🇱 dekigram

🇯🇵 デシグラム

🇫🇷 décigramme

🇪🇸 decigramo

🇹🇷 desigram

🇰🇷 데시그램

🇸🇦 ديغرام

🇨🇿 decigram

🇸🇰 decigram

🇨🇳 分克

🇸🇮 decigram

🇮🇸 desígram

🇰🇿 десиграм

🇬🇪 დეციგრამი

🇦🇿 desigram

🇲🇽 decigramo