Title: The Basics: Measurement Conversions
Course: Open PRO131 Instrumentation II > Section: Math Resources: Need a Refresher?

 | The Basics:   Measurement Conversions

- There are two systems of measurement:   the U.S customary system (measurement system adopted by the United States) and the metric system (a base 10 measurement system used by most of the world.)

- Sometimes conversions are done within the given measurement system and sometimes conversions need to be made between the two measurement systems.

Watch this helpful Khan Academy video for more information about the two systems:

U.S. Customary and Metric units

- If you want to convert from one unit of measure to another within the U.S. customary system, such as converting miles to yards, you use dimensional analysis process.

Here is the process step-by-step:

1.  Write down the given unit of measurement as a fraction (include units.)

2.  Determine what unit of measurement you wish to convert to.

3.  Find the conversion factor that connects the unit that you are converting from to the unit you are converting to.  You may need to use more than one unit factor to make the connection.

4.  Multiply or divide the units you are converting from to cancel out the given unit and end up with the unit you are converting to.

Watch this helpful Khan Academy video for more information:

Converting units of length

- When converting between different units in the metric system, you do not need to use dimensional analysis.  This is because the metric system operates in a base 10 system, meaning that each digit can be written as an integral power of ten.  To change units within the metric system it is as easy as moving the decimal place the number of units between the two; you just need to make sure that you know the order of the units.

Watch these helpful Khan Academy videos for more information:

Conversion between metric units

Converting within the metric system

Now move on to the energy technology video demonstrations. When you are ready, take the practice quiz to show what you know. If you think you need more practice, ask your instructor if the optional practice assignments would help you.