An Introduction to Unit Conversion
In this course, and in most science courses, you will need to be able to take a quantity expressed using one unit (or set of units) and convert it to another unit (or set of units). We call this process unit conversion. Watch the videos below to see two examples of unit conversion.
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As you watch the videos, you will hear me talk about a conversion factor. Remember: The conversion factor(s) you use in a unit conversion problem must be equal to 1. In other words, the quantity in the numerator of a conversion factor must be equal to the quantity in the denominator of the conversion factor. For instance, if the denominator of the conversion factor is 1 foot, the numerator must be EQUAL TO 1 foot. The numerator could be 12 inches, for example.
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Remember: You need to set up the conversion factor(s) so that you can cancel the original unit(s) and end up with the unit(s) to which you wish to convert. For instance, if you start with 15,652 feet and wish to convert to miles, the conversion factor should have feet in the denominator (so that feet will cancel) and have miles in the numerator (so that you end up with miles).
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Don't forget: The numerator and the denominator of the conversion factor must be EQUAL.
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Click HERE to download a unit conversion practice worksheet with solutions.
If the worksheet does not open up, check the top or bottom of your computer screen for a DOWNLOAD.
If the worksheet does not open up, check the top or bottom of your computer screen for a DOWNLOAD.