View
7
Download
0
Category
Preview:
Citation preview
Dimensional analysis is a way to analyze and solve problems using the units, or dimensions of the measurements.
Conversion factors: ratios of equivalent measurements used in dimensional analysis
Three steps to problem solving:
1. Analyze
2. Calculate
3. Evaluate
1. Read problem carefully
Read the problem several times if necessary
2. Find out what the problem is asking
Write down important information such as units
Make all your calculations:
May involve conversions, substitutions etc…
Check your answer-Does your answer make sense? Is it reasonable?Is it in the correct units?Is it in the correct number of significant figures
How many days are there in 6 weeks?
You are looking for this!
This is your “given”.
Figure out what relationships you will have to know in order to convert from 1 unit to another.
1 week = 7 days
Start with given and work toward what you are looking for.
6weeks = ? days
6 weeks x = days1 week
7 days
Conversion Factor : top and bottom must be
equal in value
6 weeks x = days1 week
7 days
Cancel units : cancel
units to leave correct
units for the answer
Calculate : multiply
across top and bottom
and divide to get final
answer
42
Recommended