Conversion Practice

Question

Ok I have been explained how to do this but I still can't understand. How correctly convert between units of the metric system. Like explain it for dummies. Because I still don't understand it.

Answer 1

How would you solve the math problem: 3/4 * 4/5 = ?

If you think about crossing out the fours and getting 3/5, then this is how dimensional analysis works. You are essentially using a "cross out" method to cancel out the units you don't want and end up with the units you do want.

You can also remember that multiplying something by 1 leaves you with what you had before. So if you know that there are 12 inches in 1 foot, then you could say 12 inches = 1 foot, right?

Therefore, if you then create a conversion factor of (12 inches) / (1 foot) you can reason that since 12 inches = 1 foot you are pretty much just multiplying by one and the units are the only thing you're changing when you're using the conversion factor.

And that's how dimensional analysis works! Let me know if anything is unclear!

-Brittany