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What is a conversion factor?|
Definition:
A
conversion factor
is a ratio written in
fraction form that can express the same value
or quantity in two different units.
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EXAMPLE
:
1foot = 12 in. = 1
12in. 1foot
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OR
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1 day = 24 hours = 1
24 hours 1 day
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Use of conversion factors
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Why use conversion factors?
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Many times, we can figure simple conversions in our head or with a
one step multiplication calculation. But there are many complex
conversions that require several conversions between many units.
By using the correct conversions between the units and the dimensional analysis method (also know as factor labeling), we can set up the conversion factors and calculate a solution in one problem. |
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While the metric system allows us
to easily move from one unit to
another, many chemistry and
physics problems use units that are
complicated.
Now let's look at dimensional
analysis!
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