Dimensional AnalysisIn which you will learn about:Conversion factorsStandard dimensional analysisDimensional analysis with exponential units

Dimensional AnalysisImagine math class (dont panic)Imagine multiplying two fractionsImagine the numerator of one fraction matches the denominator of the second (3/7 x 2/3)The numerator and denominator cancel!In dimensional analysis, we use this idea to cancel UNITS of measurements.

Equalities State the same measurement in two different unitslength

10.0 in.

25.4 cm

Learning Check

How many seconds are in 1.4 days?

Unit plan: days hr min seconds

1.4 days x 24 hr x 1 day60 min 1 hrx 60 s 1 min= 1.2 x 105 s

Steps to Problem Solving Read problem Identify data Make a unit plan from the initial unit to the desired unit (good practice at beginning, not necessary as you get comfortable with this) Select conversion factors Change initial unit to desired unit Cancel units and check Do math on calculator Give an answer using significant figures