1.4 Analysis of Units and Conversions in Chemistry

Dimensional AnalysisA method that allows you to easily solve problems by converting from one unit to another through the use of conversion factors.

Conversion factor A fraction or factor written so that the denominator and numerator are equivalent values with different units.

Converting between inches and centimetres

Text Page 46

1.4 Analysis of Units and Conversions in Chemistry

Converting within the Metric System

Base Units

One Step Metric ConversionsOne-step metric conversions involve a base unit (metres, litres, grams, or seconds) being converted to a prefixed unit or a prefixed unit being converted to a base unit.

Two Step Metric ConversionsTwo-step metric conversions require the use of two conversion factors. Two factors will be required any time there are two prefixed units in the question. In a two-step metric conversion, you must always convert to the base unit first.

Text Page 47

1.4 Analysis of Units and Conversions in Chemistry

Derived Unit Conversions

Derived unitIs composed on more than one unit Example: km/h or g/mL

Derived unit conversions require cancellations in two directions (from numerator todenominator as usual AND from denominator to numerator).

You should be able to convert from one derived unit to another. For example km/h to m/s

Conversions with Exponents

Text Pages 49 - 51

1.4 Analysis of Units and Conversions in Chemistry

Temperature

TemperatureIs a measure of the intensity of heat

Converting between Fahrenheit and Celsius

Method 1

Method 2

Text Pages 52 - 53