Jugs and Mugs
How much water fits in a bottle? Explore the concept of **capacity** (volume of liquid a container holds), learn to compare amounts, and master the standard units: **Litres ($\text{L}$) and Millilitres ($\text{mL}$)**.
- Select a concept below to explore liquid measurement.
- Learn the standard units: **$\text{mL}$** for small amounts and **$\text{L}$** for large amounts.
- Practice **comparing** the capacity of different containers.
- Use the **Classification** module to sort containers by the best unit.
- Test your measurement knowledge with the **Practice Quiz** button.
Capacity is a measurement of the volume a container can hold. The standard units, $\text{L}$ and $\text{mL}$, ensure accurate comparisons of liquids like milk, petrol, and water.
The Standard Units of Capacity
Capacity is measured in the Metric System, with the Litre ($\text{L}$) as the primary unit for larger volumes.
| Unit | Abbreviation | Used to Measure | Real-World Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Millilitre | $\text{mL}$ | Small volumes (medicine, perfume, eye drops) | A teaspoon holds about $5 \text{ mL}$. |
| Litre | $\text{L}$ | Large volumes (petrol, large jugs of water, milk cartons) | A standard soda bottle holds $1 \text{ L}$ or $2 \text{ L}$. |
The crucial conversion for liquid volume is:
$$1 \text{ Litre} = 1000 \text{ Millilitres}$$The total capacity of a container is not always obvious by its size (a tall, thin glass might hold less than a short, wide mug). Using measuring cylinders or pouring is necessary for accurate comparison.
