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1.2: Unit Conversions

  • Page ID
    232379
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    Unit conversions allow us to express the same measurement in different forms. In this section, you will use conversion factors and dimensional analysis to solve practical problems involving length, weight, volume, time, and other common measurements.

    • 1.2.1: Scientific Notation
      This page explains scientific notation as a method for succinctly expressing large and small numbers using powers of ten. It covers conversion techniques, the role of exponents, and practical applications for comparing numerical sizes. The advantages of scientific notation, particularly in scientific contexts and computational settings with shorthand notation, are emphasized. Caution is advised regarding dangerous substances.
    • 1.2.2: U.S. Customary Measurement System
      Measurement is a number that describes the size or amount of something. You can measure many things like length, area, capacity, weight, temperature and time. In the United States, two main systems of measurement are used: the metric system and the U.S. customary measurement system. This topic addresses the measurement of length using the U.S. customary measurement system.
    • 1.2.3: Metric Units of Measurement
      In the United States, both the U.S. customary measurement system and the metric system are used, especially in medical, scientific, and technical fields. In most other countries, the metric system is the primary system of measurement. People in many countries use words like “kilometer,” “liter,” and “milligram” to measure the length, volume, and weight of different objects. These measurement units are part of the metric system.
    • 1.2.4: Dimensional Analysis - General Applications
      This page covers the application of dimensional analysis for unit conversions, highlighting the importance of units in calculations. It includes practical scenarios like financial calculations, driving distances, medication dosages, and home improvement estimations. The lesson aims to equip learners with skills to effectively use units in various problem-solving contexts.
    • 1.2.5: Dimensional Analysis - Dosage Calculation
      This page explains dimensional analysis as a technique for converting units of measurement through equivalent fractions of 1. It underscores the importance of identifying target units and setting up equations to cancel out units diagonally. Understanding the roles of numerators and denominators is essential. The page also encourages practice with various conversions, including ounces to milliliters, to reinforce these concepts.


    1.2: Unit Conversions is shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.