Convert Gigameter to Dekameter
Convert gigameters to dekameters instantly. 1 gigameter = 1e+8 dekameter — use the live calculator, the exact formula, a conversion table and worked examples. Also check the Dekameter to Gigameter converter for the reverse conversion.
Units explained
Gigameter
A gigameter is a metric unit of length equal to one billion meters (1×10⁹ m). It is most often used in astronomy and astrophysics when expressing distances within the inner solar system.
The gigameter uses the SI prefix giga- (from Greek gigas, giant), adopted by the CGPM in 1960 to denote multiplication by one billion (10⁹).
Gigameters are used to express distances such as the Sun's diameter (~1.39 Gm), the Earth–Moon distance (~0.384 Gm), and similar inner-solar-system scales. Astronomical units and light-seconds are also common for these distances.
SI prefix giga- adopted in 1960; the gigameter became standard in astronomy for sub-AU distances by the late 20th century.
Dekameter
A dekameter (also spelled decameter) is a metric unit of length equal to ten meters (10 m). It is one of the less commonly used SI prefix units and primarily appears in agricultural, surveying, and atmospheric contexts.
The dekameter was defined alongside the meter when France adopted the metric system in 1795, using the standard SI prefix deca- (from Greek deka, ten) to denote a multiplication by ten.
Dekameters are used in some European agricultural contexts (parcel sizes, field measurements), atmospheric science (cloud heights), and certain track and field events. Modern usage is uncommon outside specialised technical fields.
Adopted in 1795 in France; ratified through the Metre Convention of 1875; remains a recognised SI prefix unit although informally superseded by the more common meter and hectometer in everyday surveying.
Gigameter to Dekameter conversion formula
The relationship between gigameters and dekameters:
To convert gigameters to dekameters, multiply the value in gigameters by 1e+8. To reverse, multiply dekameters by 1e-8.
How to use this converter
Type a value into the calculator. The result in dekameters updates as you type. Tap a quick value, copy the result with one click, or use the swap arrow to jump straight to the Dekameter to Gigameter converter for the reverse direction.
Step-by-step: convert gigameters to dekameters
- Write down the value in gigameters (Gm).
- Multiply that value by the factor 1e+8.
- The product is the equivalent value in dekameters (dam).
- To reverse, multiply the dekameter value by 1e-8.
Worked examples
Example 1 — Convert 1 Gm to dam:
1 × 1e+8 = 1e+8 dam
Example 2 — Convert 100 Gm to dam:
100 × 1e+8 = 1e+10 dam
Gigameter to Dekameter conversion table
Standard reference values for converting gigameters to dekameters:
| Gigameter [Gm] | Dekameter [dam] |
|---|---|
| 0.01 | 1000000 |
| 0.1 | 1e+7 |
| 1 | 1e+8 |
| 2 | 2e+8 |
| 3 | 3e+8 |
| 4 | 4e+8 |
| 5 | 5e+8 |
| 10 | 1e+9 |
| 20 | 2e+9 |
| 30 | 3e+9 |
| 40 | 4e+9 |
| 50 | 5e+9 |
| 100 | 1e+10 |
| 500 | 5e+10 |
| 1000 | 1e+11 |
Frequently asked questions
How many dekameters is 1 gigameter?
How do I convert gigameters to dekameters?
How do I convert dekameters back to gigameters?
How many dekameters is 100 gigameters?
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Sources & references
Conversion factor (1 Gm = 1e+8 dam) verified against the following authoritative sources:
- BIPM — The International System of Units (SI Brochure 9th ed.)
Official BIPM publication defining the seven SI base units (including the meter) and the rules for their use. The global authority on units of measurement.
- NIST — Guide to the SI
US National Institute of Standards and Technology reference covering the SI base and derived units with definitions and usage rules for US technical practice.
- NIST Special Publication 811 — Guide for the Use of the International System of Units
Detailed NIST guide covering exact conversion factors between SI and US customary units along with formatting and rounding conventions.
- NIST — Refinement of values for the yard and pound (Federal Register 1959)
The treaty (signed by US
- International Astronomical Union — System of Astronomical Constants
The IAU defines astronomical units including the AU (149597870700 m exactly) light-year and parsec used in astronomy and astrophysics.