Centimeter is 0.01 meter units.
Centimeters to Picas Converter — cm to pc
Convert Centimeter (cm) to Pica (pc) using the exact conversion factor (1 centimeter = 2.362204725 pica). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, history, and common uses.
Centimeters to Picas converter
Converter
Length Converter
Convert SI, imperial, US customary, astronomical, scientific, and historical length units.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
A pica is 12 points.
Result = input x 0.01 / 0.004233333333.
Length uses the meter as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Centimeters to Picas
Centimeter and Pica both measure length. Centimeter is most often used for everyday small-object and body measurement (height, clothing sizes) outside the us.
Formula
picas = centimeters × 2.3622047246
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 centimeter equals 0.01 base units, and 1 pica equals 0.004233333333 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct centimeter-to-pica factor of 2.3622047246.
Simple example
1 cm × 2.362204725 = 2.362204725 pc
1 centimeter = 2.362204725 picas.
Real-world example
10 cm × 2.362204725 = 23.62204725 pc
10 centimeters = 23.62204725 picas.
Conversion table
| Centimeter (cm) | Pica (pc) |
|---|---|
| 1 cm | 2.362204725 pc |
| 5 cm | 11.81102362 pc |
| 10 cm | 23.62204725 pc |
| 21.0975 cm | 49.83661418 pc |
| 42.195 cm | 99.67322835 pc |
| 100 cm | 236.2204725 pc |
Reverse conversion: Pica to Centimeter
2.362204725 pc × 0.4233333333 = 1 cm
2.362204725 picas = 1 centimeters.
centimeters = picas × 0.4233333333
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Pica to Centimeter.
Understanding the Centimeter
Centimeter (cm) measures distance. A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter. It is classified as a SI derived (metric prefix) unit.
Where it's used: Standard small-length unit worldwide except the US
Uses of the Centimeter today
- Everyday small-object and body measurement (height, clothing sizes) outside the US
- Construction and manufacturing tolerances internationally
History of the Centimeter
The centimeter follows directly from the meter via the 'centi-' SI prefix (10⁻²), introduced with the metric system in the 1790s.
Historical origin. Centimeter was not the invention of a single named person; it developed through the process described above.
Understanding the Pica (pc)
A pica is 12 points.
Centimeter — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — SI prefixes — Defines 'centi-' as the prefix for 10⁻².
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many picas are in 1 centimeter?
1 centimeter equals 2.362204725 picas, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert centimeter to pica?
Multiply the centimeter value by 2.362204725. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert pica back to centimeter?
Use the reverse factor: 1 pica equals 0.4233333333 centimeters. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a centimeter?
Centimeter (cm) measures distance. A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter. It is classified as a SI derived (metric prefix) unit.
What is a pica?
Pica (pc) is a unit of length.
Is the centimeter to pica conversion exact?
Yes. Both centimeter and pica are defined by fixed standards rather than physical artifacts, so the factor of 2.362204725 used above is exact to as many digits as you choose to display.
Where is the centimeter still used today?
Standard small-length unit worldwide except the US