Chem One Online Support Course

Module # 1
Topics and Concepts
Page 4


Solutions to Problems
Reports
Laboratory
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Metric Conversions

Important Points:

At times there is a need to convert one metric unit into another. Such as meters (m) into centimeters (cm) or liters (l) into cubic decimeters (dm3)

In this section you will learn how to convert between related units of the metric system by multiplying by ratios. This method is often called the factor-label method or dimensional analysis. Whatever the name, the method uses the relationships of metric units (in ratio form) to determine the correct unit of dimension that the answer should have. Once the unit is correctly determined multiplying the numbers in the ratios is simply an exercise in using a calculator correctly.

To use this method you do not have to know any direct conversion factors (such as .01 m in 1 cm).

All you need is a table that relates, by ratios, various metric units to each other and your brain to set up the correct sequence of ratios in order to convert from one unit to another. So be aware of the fact that you are expected to think about how to correctly setup a solution to the problem. If the setup is correct the answer will be correct (providing you use the calculator correctly).

By the way -- On problems sets and worksheets you hand in for credit, you must show work in the form of a setup of the problem.

Answers alone don't get it.      No work -- no credit.

Kind of Rhymes? Doesn't it?

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