What does the prefix 'Kilo' represent in the metric system?

In the metric system, the prefix 'Kilo' is used to denote a factor of 1,000. This means that when 'Kilo' is applied to a unit of measurement, it increases that unit's value by a thousand times. For instance, a kilometer is equal to 1,000 meters, and a kilogram is equal to 1,000 grams. Understanding this prefix is essential for converting and interpreting measurements in scientific contexts, where precision is crucial.