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Dimensional Analysis�

Lesson Objectives:

  • Construct conversion factors from equivalent measurements.

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  • Apply the techniques of dimensional analysis to solving problems.

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Conversion Factor

A conversion factor -

A ratio of equivalent measurements.

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Dimensional Analysis

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Examples

How many seconds are in a day?

Step 1: List the known quantities and plan the problem.

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Known Unknown

1 day = 24 hours 1 day = ? seconds

1 hour = 60 minutes

1 minute = 60 seconds

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Step 2: Calculate

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1 day 24 hours 60 minutes 60 seconds =

1 day 1 hour 1 minute

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Step 3: Think about your result

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Practice problems