Physics Math Scientific Notation and Metric Conversions To

Physics Math Scientific Notation and Metric Conversions

To convert from one unit to another… • Start every problem with a ? • The “? ” means “How many? ” • For example, Convert 152 cm to _______m, becomes ? m = 152 cm

Conversion Factors Statements of fact expressed as a fraction equaling 1.

When using conversion factors… You will need to know the conversion fact first! For example, the fact is 1 m = 100 cm Expressed as a conversion factor, it is: 1 m or 100 cm 1 m *When deciding which to use, set it up so that the units cancel each other!

Example #1: On your white board, set up the problem: ? m = 152 cm x ______ Hint: When you plug in the fact, you must place cm so they will cancel out!

Example #2: Convert 62 kg to g. Hint: -Start with a “? ” and unit you don’t know yet. -Set up units so they will cancel. -Plug in the conversion fact and do the math!

Example #3: Convert 1700 us to ds. In this case, you will need two steps. First, convert us to s. Then, convert s to ds.

Example #4: 0. 0056 mm = _____ km Hint: Convert mm to m, then m to km.

A few more rules! • When converting between units, always write the numerator and denominator on separate lines! Makes cancelling easier! • Example: Convert 310 km/h to mi/h. • WRONG WAY ? mi/h = 310 km/h

CORRECT ? mi h = 310 km x h Conversion fact: 1 km =. 62 mi mi km

Example #5: Convert 570 g/L to g/m. L.

Example #6: Convert 16 m/min to m/s.

Example #7: Convert 65 km/h to m/s. To begin with:

Step 2: Take care of km first.

Step 3: Now, convert time.

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