I. Definition
A. Way to solve problems using the units, or
dimensions, of a measurement
II. Conversion Factors
A. Ratio of equivalent measurements
B. Do not count when determining sig. figs.
C. Written as fractions
D. Reciprocals are also true
E. Examples
i.
4 quarters = 1 dollar
ii. 1 yd = 3 ft
1 yard
3 feet
4 quarters
1 dollar
1 dollar
4 quarters
3 feet
1 yard
III. Metric Conversion Factors
Property Base Unit
Length
Mass
Volume
meter (m)
kilogram
(kg)
Liter (L)
Prefix
Symbol
Relationship
kilo
k
1 km = 103 m
centi
c
1 cm = 10−2 m
milli
m
1 mm = 10−3 m
nano
n
1 nm = 10−9 m
kilo
k
1 kg = 103 g
milli
m
1 mg = 10−3 g
milli
m
1 mL = 10−3 L
micro
μ
1 μL = 10−6 L
** l mL = 1 cm3 (cubic centimeter or cc)
IV. Problem solving steps
A. Identify the given
B. Draw your table
C. Identify what your trying to find
D. Find and insert conversion factors (cancel as
you go)
E. Multiply across numerators
F. Divide by the denominators (individually)
G. Round answer to correct sig figs!
V. Examples
A.How milligrams are in 750 grams.
B. How many kilograms are in 10.5 grams.
C. How many milligrams would a 0.75 lb. hamburger
weigh? (1 lb = 453.6 g)
D. How many centimeters are there in 1.5 yards?
(1 yd = 3 ft, 1 ft = 12 in, 1 in = 2.54 cm)
E. How many cubic centimeters (cc) are in 2.5 liters?