Chapter 2: Measurements and Calculations — Dimensional Analysis, Temperature, and Density

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the notes on measurements, dimensional analysis, temperature scales, density, and related conversions.

Dimensional Analysis

A problem-solving method that uses conversion factors and equivalence statements to convert a quantity from one unit to another, ensuring proper cancellation of units and correct significant figures.

Conversion Factor

A ratio derived from an equality between two units used to convert quantities between units (e.g., 1 ft = 12 in).

Equivalence Statement

A stated equality relating two units used to build a conversion factor (e.g., 1 ft = 12 in).

Significant Figures

Digits in a measurement that carry meaning about precision; trailing zeros and decimal points determine which zeros are significant.

Three Temperature Scales

Fahrenheit, Celsius, and Kelvin—the three units used to measure temperature.

Temperature Conversions

The process of converting temperatures between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin scales (examples are shown in class).

Density

Mass per unit volume, commonly expressed in g/cm3 or g/mL.

Water Displacement Method

A procedure to measure the volume of a solid by the change in liquid volume when the solid is submerged.

Density Formula

Density = mass ÷ volume.

Mass

A measure of the amount of matter in an object, typically given in grams (g) or kilograms (kg).

Volume

The amount of space occupied by an object; commonly measured in cm3 or mL.

Exponential Notation (Scientific Notation)

A way of writing numbers as a product of a coefficient and a power of 10 to express very large or small numbers.

Mass Conversions

Examples include 1 kg = 2.2046 lb and 1 kg = 1000 g.

Length Conversion (Feet to Inches)

An example conversion factor: 1 ft = 12 in.

Kelvin (K)

The SI unit of temperature used in temperature scales and calculations.

Celsius (°C)

A temperature scale used in many class examples for conversions.

Fahrenheit (°F)

A temperature scale used in many class examples for conversions.

Currency Conversion (USD/JPY/GBP)

Conversion factors given: $1 = ¥147.16 and £1 = $1.36, used to practice dimensional analysis.