Chapter 2, Problem 75A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The place of the values that is numerator and denominator needs to be decided while converting a value from meters to centimeters.

Concept introduction:

Unit conversion can be defined as a multi-step process involving division or multiplication by a numerical factor, rounding and selection of correct number of significant digits.

Answer to Problem 75A

While converting from meter to centimeter, the number of meter must cancel out. The only way of doing this is to divide the number of meter by the conversion factor for meter. This suggests that the meter will be at the denominator.

Explanation of Solution

In order to convert one unit to another, the original units must cancel out. Therefore, while converting from meter to centimeter, meter must cancel out. The only way of doing this is to divide the number in meter by the conversion factor for meter. This suggests the meter will be at the denominator.

For example, 1 m is equal to 100 cm thus, the conversion factor used to convert 1 m to cm will be $\frac{\text{100 cm}}{1\text{ m}}$.

Conclusion

While converting from meter to centimeter, the number of meter must cancel out. The only way of doing this is to divide the number of meter by the conversion factor for meter. This suggests that the meter will be at the denominator.