There are a few reasons backpacks are measured in liters. However, the best explanation is because it’s easier to gauge the space inside.
For example, you can easily differentiate a 10L backpack from a 40L one. But if I gave you dimensions for either of those bags, it may get a little confusing.
After all, what’s easier to understand?
40L
Or…
40000 cm3.
But I Thought Liquid Was Measured In Litres?
True.
But not true.
You see, liters are used to measure liquids. However, they refer to the volume of the container, rather than the liquid itself.
Why Is Capacity Measured In Liters?
Capacity can also be measured in cubic centimeters, not just liters.
The problem? It’s very difficult for the general public to comprehend 40000cm3 as a size.
Heck, even I wouldn’t know how big that is!
But when 40000cm3 is converted into liters, you get 40L.
And because we know that a pint of milk equals 1 liter, it’s easier to comprehend how 40L of milk would look.
How do you measure the volume of a backpack?
When measuring the volume of a backpack, you would use cubic centimeters. To measure the cubic centimeters, determine the length, width, and height of the backpack in centimeters, and multiply them together.
For example…
10cm X 10cm X 15cm = 1500cm3
Next divide this number by 1000
1500 ÷ 1000 = 1.5liters
Of course, you wouldn’t find a backpack that is 1.5 liters. So, keep in mind, this is just an example!
It’s also good to remember that every 1000cm3 translates to 1 liter.
So, If your backpack measures 10000cm3, it would be 10L.
With that being said, there’s another way to measure your backpack volume.
You will need some dried beans
Let's Wrap It Up...
One of the most common units of volume is the liter. The liter is used to measure the capacity of a container and is equivalent to 1,000 cubic centimeters.
Cubic centimeters are often used when measuring the volume of a backpack but are then translated into liters, making it easier to understand the size.