How do you convert lengths? - Answers

Converting length is essentially the same as any other conversion. Depending on the unit of measurement one uses, the calculation are different. For example: If you measure something to be 1 meter long and you want to convert it into centimeters, all you need to do is multiply 1 by 100. 1*100 = 100cm This is because there are 100 cm in 1 meter. There are many variables when converting length, but you always want to approach it with a systematic approach using dimensional analysis and algebra. One key is to know what conversion factors you know. For instance, most people know 3 feet = 1 yard and 12 inches = 1 feet. Less people know there are 5280 feet in a mile and that 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters. Very few people know that 1 feet = 0.3048 meters, so how would you convert from feet to meters if you only knew the more common conversions? Using the more common conversion of 1 inch to 2.54 centimeters, we've setup the equation to convert from feet to meters. Notice we use the very common feet to inches conversion, then use the inch to centimeters conversion. This leaves us with centimeters, which most people know 100 cm = 1 m, so doing this final steps leaves us with our answer in meters. Algebraic Steps / Dimensional Analysis ____ ft*12 in 1 ft*2.54 cm 1 in*1 m 100 cm=? m This is just one example of the hundreds of possibilities, but it should give you a good start.