Metric Units And Conversions Page 2
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8METRIC-METRIC CONVERSIONS
Factor Label Method: We will use this method for problem solving throughout the semester!
Factor Label Method Steps
1. Identify units for what you want to FIND (answer).
2. Identify the GIVEN (starting point).
3. Multiply GIVEN quantity by 1 or more conversion factors (shown as fractions) so that all
units cancel except the units needed for the final answer. (Include units in your set-up!)
4. Check for correct units and round the final answer to the proper number of sig figs.
It should be noted that you never start with the conversion factor as you do not know yet which
number should be on top! Always start with the GIVEN.
Example 1. How many meters is 4.5 km?
Given: 4.5 km
Wanted: ? meters
Conversion Factors: 1000 m = 1 km
4.5 km (
) = 4500 m
Example 2. How many m are in 0.0257 cm?
Wanted: ? m
Given: 0.0257 cm
Conversion Factors: 100 cm = 1 m, 1,000,000 m = 1 m
) = 25.7 m
0.0257 cm (
) (
When performing conversions, SHOW ALL WORK for full points in this class! If your set-up
is correct, then all units cancel except for the final desired units.
Note that exact conversion factors and exact counted values do not limit sig figs. Use sig
fig rules only for measured values (such as 15.8 g) or approximate conversion factors (454
grams = 1 pound is approximate)
3.3 English Conversions
English conversion factors we expect you to know: Note these are all exact.
2 cups = 1 pint
2 pints = 1 quart
4 quarts = 1 gallon
12 inches = 1 foot
3 feet = 1 yard
1760 yards = 1 mile
60 sec = 1 minute
60 min = 1 hour
24 hours = 1 day
Smith, Clark
GCC CHM 130
Chapter 3: Metric Units and Conversions
page 2
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