Understanding Time Notation: 13:30 pm or am?
When it comes to telling time, we often come across notations like 13:30 pm or am. But have you ever wondered what these notations actually mean? In this article, we'll delve into the world of time notation and explore the difference between 13:30 pm and am.
What is 13:30?
In 24-hour time notation, 13:30 represents 1:30 pm in 12-hour time notation. Yes, you read that right! In 24-hour time notation, the day starts at 00:00 (midnight) and ends at 23:59. This notation is commonly used in military, scientific, and technical contexts.
What is pm and am?
In 12-hour time notation, pm and am are used to distinguish between morning and afternoon/evening. am stands for "ante meridiem," which means "before midday" in Latin. It refers to the hours from midnight to 11:59 am. On the other hand, pm stands for "post meridiem," which means "after midday" in Latin. It refers to the hours from 12:00 pm to 11:59 pm.
Is 13:30 pm or am?
Now, let's get back to our original question. Is 13:30 pm or am? The answer is neither. As we mentioned earlier, 13:30 in 24-hour time notation corresponds to 1:30 pm in 12-hour time notation. So, it's actually pm!
Why the confusion?
The confusion arises when we try to use 24-hour time notation in 12-hour time notation or vice versa. For instance, if someone says 13:30 pm, it's incorrect because 13:30 is already in 24-hour time notation, and pm is used in 12-hour time notation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 13:30 refers to 1:30 pm in 12-hour time notation, and it's not necessary to add pm or am to it. By understanding the difference between 24-hour and 12-hour time notation, we can avoid confusion and accurately tell time. So, the next time you see 13:30, you'll know exactly what it means!
