How to Convert Meters to Liters

The meter is the basic unit of length in the metric system, while the liter is the basic unit of volume. Liquid is generally measured by volume. Volume also can be expressed in units of cubic meters (m3), which describes the volume of a cube that has equal edges of one meter in length. Cubic meters often express concentrations of a chemical in a volume of air. A unit of volume must first be measured in cubic meters in order to convert meters to liters.

Step 1

Obtain the volume of an object in cubic meters. If you already have the information, use this number in the conversion.

Step 2

If you are determining the volume of a cube, measure the length in meters. Measure the width and height as well.

Step 3

Multiply these three metric figures together. The unit will be in cubic meters.

Step 4

Multiply the figure in cubic meters by 1,000 to convert to liters.