Convert Cubic Decimeter (dm³) to Stere (st (vol)) instantly.
About these units
Cubic Decimeter (dm³)
A cubic decimeter is defined as 1 liter, since it is the volume of a cube 10 centimeters per side. Though equivalent to the liter, dm³ is often used in engineering and physics because it fits neatly into the SI geometric framework. This unit is convenient when working with densities (kg/dm³), where the equivalence of 1 dm³ and 1 L simplifies many calculations involving fluids and materials. While the liter dominates everyday usage, the cubic decimeter is favored in technical contexts where a strong geometric interpretation is needed—for example, in tank sizing, volumetric flow calculations, or experiments involving water displacement.
Stere (st (vol))
A stere is exactly 1 cubic meter, but with a particular association: it was defined specifically for measuring stacked firewood. Logs are irregular, so the stere measures the approximate space that a cubic meter of stacked wood occupies (including air gaps). The stere is still used in France and some other European regions as part of forestry traditions. Firewood sales often use the stere to maintain consistency with historical practices. The stere's survival shows how volume measurement often reflects cultural and economic tradition rather than purely scientific convenience, especially in long-standing industries like wood harvesting.