How many micrograms (mcg) are in one milligram (mg)?

To understand why the correct response is 1000 micrograms (mcg) in one milligram (mg), it is essential to know the relationship between these two units of measurement.

The metric system is based on powers of ten, making conversions straightforward. One milligram is defined as one-thousandth of a gram. Since one gram is equal to 1,000,000 micrograms, this means that one milligram must be 1,000 micrograms.

Thus, when converting from milligrams to micrograms, you multiply the milligram value by 1,000. Therefore, 1 mg equals 1,000 mcg. This conversion is a fundamental aspect of medication dosing and calculations, as accurate measurement is critical for patient safety and treatment efficacy.

This foundational knowledge allows healthcare professionals to effectively communicate medication doses and ensures precise administration, highlighting the importance of understanding metric conversions in clinical practice.