Decameter to Meter Converter

A decameter (dam) is a unit of length in the metric system equal to 10 meters. It serves as an intermediate unit between meters and hectometers.

The decameter was part of the original metric system established in 1795. The prefix 'deca-' comes from the Greek word 'deka' meaning 'ten'. Despite being part of the original system, it has seen very limited practical adoption.

Decameters are rarely used in practical applications. They may occasionally appear in some technical or scientific contexts, but meters and kilometers are generally preferred for most measurements that would fall within the decameter range.

A meter (m) is the base unit of length in the International System of Units (SI). Originally defined as one ten-millionth of the distance from the Earth's equator to the North Pole, it is now defined by the speed of light in vacuum.

The meter was first defined in 1793 during the French Revolution as part of the metric system. Initially based on Earth's dimensions, it was later redefined using a platinum-iridium bar (1889), then by wavelengths of light (1960), and finally in 1983 by the distance light travels in vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second.

The meter is universally used in science, engineering, and most countries for everyday measurements. It's the standard for construction, manufacturing, sports (track and field), and scientific research. Most countries use meters for height, room dimensions, and short to medium distances.