Mastering the Factor-Label Method for Conversions

Mr. Anderson introduces the factor label method, also known as dimensional analysis, as a systematic way to solve conversion problems. He uses the analogy of Six Degrees of Separation to explain the concept. The video includes examples of converting units, such as days to hours and miles per hour to meters per second, using the factor label method. Mr. Anderson also discusses the limitations of the method, particularly when dealing with conversions that require more than a simple ratio.

What is another name for the Factor-Label Method?

• Dimensional Analysis

• Scientific Notation

• Unit Conversion

• Mathematical Analysis

Why is the Factor-Label Method important in science?

• It helps in solving complex problems.

• It helps in memorizing formulas.

• It simplifies addition and subtraction.

• It is used for drawing diagrams.

What is the concept of 'six degrees of separation' used to explain?

• The distance between two cities.

• The steps in the Factor-Label Method.

• The connection between any two people on the planet.

• The relationship between different scientific units.

What is the first step in the Factor-Label Method?

• Start with the given quantity and express it as a fraction.

• Multiply the given quantity by a conversion factor.

• Cancel out the units.

• Solve the math.

In the example of converting one day to hours, what is the conversion factor used?

• 1 hour = 24 minutes

• 1 day = 24 hours

• 1 hour = 60 seconds

• 1 day = 60 minutes

How many seconds are there in 12 days?

• 1,209,600 seconds

• 720,000 seconds

• 864,000 seconds

• 1,036,800 seconds

What is the scientific notation for 1,036,800 seconds?

• 1.0 x 10^6 seconds

• 1.0 x 10^4 seconds

• 1.0 x 10^5 seconds

• 1.0 x 10^7 seconds

What is the conversion factor for miles to meters?

• 1 mile = 1000 meters

• 1 mile = 1609 meters

• 1 mile = 2000 meters

• 1 mile = 1500 meters

How many significant digits should the final answer have if the initial value has two significant digits?

• One significant digit

• Three significant digits

• Four significant digits

• Two significant digits

What is a limitation of the Factor-Label Method?

• It is only useful for simple problems.

• It cannot handle conversions involving both multiplication and addition.

• It cannot convert between different units of time.

• It requires advanced mathematical knowledge.