1 Converting with DA: 1 Step

Big Ideas

• In this lesson we will learn how to convert quantities from one unit to another using dimensional analysis (DA).
• Converting changes the units but NOT the type of quantity - so a time can be converted from hours into minutes, but a distance cannot be converted into a time!
• The conversion factor will be provided for you in the question.

Tips

• First, set up a "train tracks" with two columns! ⎯|⎯|
• The given number and unit go in the first column on the top row of your train tracks.
• Next, use the conversion factor provided in the question to fill in the second column, with the units placed so that the original unit will get canceled out!
• Finally, cancel any units that are on both top and bottom, then multiply any numbers in the top row and divide by any numbers on the bottom row to get your answer!