Dimensional Analysis and Unit Conversions Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms, metric prefixes, and conversion principles from the lecture on dimensional analysis and unit conversions.

Dimensional analysis

A systematic method of unit conversion using ratios equal to 1, canceling unwanted units like algebraic variables and preserving equality.

Conversion factor

A ratio of equivalent quantities (such as $1\,mg = 10^{-3}\,g$) equal to 1, used to change units by placing unwanted units opposite each other to cancel.

Metric prefix

A standard power-of-ten prefix (such as kilo, deci, centi, milli) that changes a base unit by powers of 10 and provides exact conversion relationships.

Significant figures

The digits in a measured value that convey its precision and govern the precision of the final calculated answer.

Conversion path

An ordered sequence of conversion factors mapping a chain of equalities that links a starting unit to a target unit when no single factor connects them.

kilo

A metric prefix with the symbol k corresponding to a power of 10 of $10^3$.

deci

A metric prefix with the symbol d corresponding to a power of 10 of $10^{-1}$.

centi

A metric prefix with the symbol c corresponding to a power of 10 of $10^{-2}$.

milli

A metric prefix with the symbol m corresponding to a power of 10 of $10^{-3}$.

Scored tablets

Tablets (such as $80\,mg$ scored tablets) that can be halved, allowing the half-tablet to be treated as a valid unit in dosage calculations.