L

What is a Liter?

Volume Unit

Definition

A liter is a metric unit of volume equal to 1,000 cubic centimeters or approximately 0.264 US gallons.

History

The liter was introduced in France in 1795 as a derivative of the meter. Originally defined as the volume of 1 kilogram of water, it was redefined in 1964 as exactly 1,000 cubic centimeters.

Common Uses

  • Beverage containers and bottles
  • Fuel economy measurements (L/100km)
  • Engine displacement
  • Cooking and recipe measurements

Fun Facts

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A liter of water weighs exactly 1 kilogram

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The human body contains about 5 liters of blood

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A standard wine bottle is 750 milliliters

All Liter Conversions