SL#14

How to use
Conversion Factors
(a.k.a. Dimensional Analysis)
Problem:

5,195 g equals how many kilograms?

Step 1

Write down the starting value with its units.

5195 g
Step 2

Make a fraction out of this number by

putting it over 1.

5195 g
1
Step 3
 Find an equivalency that has both the unit you
are starting with and the unit you want to convert
to.

5195 g
1

1 kg = 1000 g
Step 4
 Turn your equivalency into a fraction by putting
the number with the unit you are converting to
on top.

5195 g
1
Because we are converting from grams to
kilograms, “1 kg” goes on top.
1 kg = 1000 g
Step 5

Multiply the two fractions, making sure to

cancel like units.

5195 g 1 kg 5195 kg
X =
1 1000 g 1000
Step 6

Complete the mathematical operation and

then circle your answer.

5195 g 1 kg 5195 kg
X
= 5.195= kg
1 1000 g 1000
You have just calculated that 5,195 g
equals 5.195 kg!

Way to go!
Another Example…

2.4 kilometers equals how many meters?

Note: 1 km = 1000 m
Step 1

Write down the starting value with its units.

2.4 km
Step 2

Make a fraction out of this number by

putting it over 1.

2.4 km
1
Step 3

Find an equivalency that has your starting

unit and your finishing unit.

2.4 km
1

1000 m = 1 km
Step 4
 Turn your equivalency into a fraction by putting
the number with the unit you are converting to
on top.

2.4 km
1

1000 m = 1 km
Step 5

Multiply the two fractions, making sure to

cancel like units.

2.4 km 1000 m 2400 m

X =
1 1 km 1
Step 6

Complete the mathematical operation and

then circle your answer.

2.4 km 1000 m 2400 m

X
= 2400=m
1 1 km 1