Dimensional Analysis Vocabulary

A collection of vocabulary flashcards defining key terms, rules, and steps for performing dimensional analysis.

Measurement

A quantitative observation that results in both a number and a unit, where reporting the unit is just as important as reporting the number.

Conversion Factor

A fraction in which the same quantity is expressed one way in the numerator and another way in the denominator.

Dimensional Analysis

A problem-solving method that treats units as algebraic quantities, allowing units to be canceled like variables in algebra.

First Step of Dimensional Analysis

Write down the quantity given or, occasionally, a ratio to be converted.

Second Step of Dimensional Analysis

Multiply the given quantity by one or more conversion factors (rates or ratios) to change the units given to those required for the answer.

Constant Conversion Factors

Conversion factors that have fixed, unchanging values, such as the number of cents in a dollar.

Variable Conversion Factors

Conversion factors that change depending on the context, such as the number of miles traveled by a car per hour, which must be provided in the problem statement.

Inch to Centimeter Conversion

An exact equivalence statement defined as $1\text{ in} = 2.54\text{ cm}$.