Unit Factor Method

Overview

Unit converting from one system to another can be done with the unit factor method - also called dimensional analysis.

The relationship between two different units can be expressed as:

u1 = x × u2

where

• u1 = unit 1
• u2 = unit 2
• x = converting factor from u2 to u1

Unit Factor Method

Dividing the relationship with both sides creates two unit factors for the relationship.

Example: Inches vs. Millimeters

Converting a value from one unit to another can be done by multiplying both sides with the value.

Example: Converting 10 mm to inches

Using the conversion factor: 1 inch = 25.4 mm

Factor-Label Method

The factor-label method is a sequential combination of conversion factors where numerator and denominator of the conversion factor fractions can be cancelled out to achieve a desired set of dimensional units.

Example: Converting 2.5 feet to mm

Using: 1 foot = 12 inches, 1 inch = 25.4 mm