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I have a $1$m cube. Its volume is $1$m$^3$, its surface area $6$m$^2$ and its total edge length $12$m. If I measure the dimensions of the same cube in centimetres, then its volume would be $1000000$cm$^3$, its total surface area $60000$cm$^2$ and its total edge length $1200$cm.

In the first case, the total edge length is numerically largest, whereas in the second case the total volume is numerically largest.

Could you choose a unit of measurement so that the surface area was numerically largest?

Can you choose a unit of measurement so that two of the quantities are numerically the same?

Why can't you find a unit of measurement so that all three quantities are numerically the same?

Can you invent any shape for which you can choose units so that the total edge length, total surface area and volume are numerically equal?
 

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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