What is the prefix that indicates a factor of 100 times the base unit?

The prefix that indicates a factor of 100 times the base unit is "hecto-." This prefix is derived from the Greek word "hekaton," meaning one hundred. In the metric system, it is commonly used to denote measurements that are one hundred times larger than the base unit. For example, one hectometer (hm) is equal to 100 meters, illustrating how hecto- functions in practical terms.

Understanding the function of the prefix "hecto-" helps grasp more complex metric relationships and conversions, which are important in scientific measurements. The other prefixes mentioned convey different values: "deci-" indicates one-tenth, "centi-" indicates one-hundredth, and "milli-" signifies one-thousandth, each serving unique purposes in the metric system but not equating to a factor of 100.