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