If you are unsure about the proper factor to use in making a
Last updated: 3/30/2023
If you are unsure about the proper factor to use in making a metric conversion you can use the technique known as dimensional analysis This technique is base on two principles Multiplying a number by 1 does not change the number A number divided by itself is equal to 1 Example Since 1 m is equal to 1 000 mm 1m 1000mm 1 Suppose you want to convert 0 032 to mm then 0 032 X 1000m 1m 32 0mm Notice that in dimensional analysis the problem is set up so that the unwanted units cancel each other This technique is particularly useful for complex conversions or when some conversion factor cannot be recalled An additional method of conversion within the metric system involved the use of a number line This is possible because the metric system is based on units of 10 T G 12 9 and 1000mm 1m 1 M 6 0 00247 g 0 5369 hl METRIC PREFIX k 3 cm mg h mL 2 da SYMBOL 1 m L gd C m The conversion of one unit to another merely involved movement of the decimal points Make the following conversions 7 941 km 0 1 2 3 u 6 7 941 cm 2 47 mg MULT FACTOR 5 369 L nA p f a 9 10 12 15 18 km g uL NUMERIC EQUIVALENT