Unit Conversion.xml NESTR_schema.xsd (Version 2)

Unit Conversion

Click here to view this resource (on external site)

Description: Unit conversion is a multi-step process that involves multiplication or division by a numerical factor, selection of the correct number of significant digits, and rounding. This multi-step process is presented on this webpage and supplemental NIST resource publications, including a rounding procedure for technical documents, specifications, and other applications such packaged goods in the commercial marketplace and temperature. Dimensional analysis is a technique used to convert between measurement units, an important technique when working within and between measurement systems. For example, changing the magnitude of a International System of Unit (SI) quantity or converting between SI and non-SI units.
Teaching tips:
  • 5 to 30 minutes teaching time
  • Demonstrate how to use the dimensional analysis technique.
  • Explore mishaps that have occurred when multiple measurement systems were simultaneously used as the result of a unit conversion calculation error. Describe the impact and consequences of the errors.
Resource owner information:
  • Elizabeth Benham
  • [email protected]
  • NIST
  • 68 - Physical Measurement Laboratory (PML)
  • 680 - Physical Measurement Laboratory Office
Resource dates:
  • Created on January 13, 2010
  • Last updated on July 11, 2024
  • Reviewed on July 11, 2024
Resource type:
  • Educational Resource: Article
Resource format:
  • Webpage
School subjects:
  • STEM: Biology and Life Sciences
  • STEM: Chemistry
  • STEM: Engineering
  • STEM: Environmental Science
  • STEM: Mathematics
  • STEM: Physical Science (General)
  • STEM: Physics
  • Other: Life Skills
Keywords:
  • Metric system
  • Math
  • Calculate
  • Factor
  • Ratio
  • Problem
  • Numerator
  • Denominator
  • Metrication
Topics:
  • Research at NIST: Chemistry
  • Research at NIST: Health
  • Research at NIST: Mathematics and Statistics
  • Research at NIST: Metrology
  • Other: SI Units
Instructional levels:
  • Intermediate (3-5)
  • Middle (6-8)
  • High School (9-12)
  • Undergraduate Intro
Target audiences:
  • Students
  • Parents
  • Educators
  • Professionals
  • Outreach Ambassadors
  • General Public
Language:
  • English