How to convert from one unit to another

To learn how to convert from one unit to another right away, click here.

If you want to review some basic rules in unit conversions, read on.

What math rules are relevant in unit conversions?

The rules are:

if any number with a unit is multiplied by 1, that number with the unit remains the same. For example, 7 cm * 1 = 7 cm
if any number with a unit (except zero) is divided by itself, the result equals 1. For example, 4.48 cm/4.48 cm = 1 (forward slash (/) means divided) = 1

Why we need to convert from one unit to another

Imagine that you measured an object’s mass in grams (g), and later, you decide to convert from grams to kilograms.

How will you go about this?

To convert from grams to kilograms, you must first know the relationship between the two units. That’s 1000 g = 1 kg.

Why should units be included anytime we measure something?

Measurements without units are meaningless because no-one will understand them. So it is important to include units anytime we measure something so that people will understand what they mean. Once people understand them, they can always relate them to other units of measurement.