Question E.7: Unit Conversion Convert 1.8 quarts to cubic centimeters.
Unit Conversion
Convert 1.8 quarts to cubic centimeters.
SORT Begin by sorting the information in the problem into given and find.
GIVEN: 1.8 qt
FIND: cm³
STRATEGIZE Devise a conceptual plan for the problem. Begin with the given quantity and symbolize each conversion step with an arrow. Below each arrow, write the appropriate conversion factor for that step. Focus on the units. The conceptual plan should end at the find quantity and its units. In these examples, the other information you need consists of relationships between the various units as shown.
CONCEPTUAL PLAN
RELATIONSHIPS USED
1.057 qt = 1 L
1 \ mL = 10^{-3} \ L
1 mL = 1 cm³
(These conversion factors are in the inside back cover of your book.)
Follow the conceptual plan. Begin with the given quantity and its units. Multiply by the appropriate conversion factor(s), canceling units, to arrive at the find quantity. Round the answer to the correct number of significant figures following guidelines in Section E.4. Remember that exact conversion factors do not limit significant figures.
1.8 \ \cancel{qt}\times \frac{1 \ \cancel{L}}{1.057 \ \cancel{qt}}\times \frac{1 \ \cancel{mL}}{10^{-3} \ \cancel{L}} \times \frac{1 \ cm^3}{1 \ \cancel{mL}}= 1.70293 × 10³ cm³
1.70293 × 10³ cm³ = 1.7 × 10³ cm³
CHECK Check your answer. Are the units correct? Does the answer make sense?
The units (cm³ ) are correct. The magnitude of the answer (1700) makes sense because a cubic centimeter is a much smaller unit than a quart.