Unit Conversion: Dimensional Analysis

A conversion factor is a ratio of two equivalent amounts, so it always equals 1.

• a.true
• b.false

Which of the following statements are true about the conversion factor below?

• a.It could be used to convert 120 cm to inches.
• b.It could be used to convert 12 inches to cm.
• c.Since 1 inch = 2.54 cm, the conversion factor is equal to 1.
• d.All of the above are true statements.

Which of the following setups, when solved, would give you the number of seconds in one week?

• a.A is the correct setup
• b.B is the correct setup
• c.C is the correct setup
• d.D is the correct setup

What is wrong with this setup to determine the number of inches in one kilometer:

• a.The ratio of feet to inches is not correct.
• b.The conversion factors don't all have 1 on the same side of the division bar.
• c.You can't divide small numbers like 1.0 by large numbers like 5280.
• d.The miles don't get canceled by the second conversion factor.

Given that there are 2 shaftments in a foot, 1.5 feet in a cubit, 2 cubits in a yard, and 2 yards in a fathom, how many shaftments are there in 2.0 fathoms?

• a.There is not enough information given.
• b.0.17 shaftments
• c.12 shaftments
• d.24 shaftments

Given that there are 3 hands in one foot, and 12 inches in one foot, how many hands are there in 1.0 inch?

• a.0.33 hands
• b.0.25 hands
• c.4.0 hands
• d.36 hands

Given that 1 mile = 1.61 kilometers, which would be faster, 60 miles per hour, or 60 kilometers per hour?

• a.There is not enough information given.
• b.Neither - they are the same speed.
• c.60 miles per hour is faster.
• d.60 kilometers per hour is faster.