Dimensional Analysis

Dimensional Analysis Problems

Dimensional analysis is also known as the factor-label method of problem solving.
It involves the use of conversions to systematically change units.

The following examples may help:

1.0 ft  =  _____  cm

1.0 ft  x   12 in  x  2.54 cm   =  30.48 cm   =  30. cm
                 1 ft           1 in

63 s  =  ____ ns   (nanoseconds)

63 s   x   1 E 9 ns   =  63 E 9 ns  =  6.3 E 10 ns
                   1 s   

1.00 year  =   _______ s

1.00 yr  x  365.24 day   x   24 hr   x    3600 s     =   3.2 E 7 s
                     1 yr                   1 day         1 hr

Page Last Updated: Friday March 02, 2007           Webmaster: Larry Jones                 Pickens County School District