conversion from grams to tons

[nmiller51]

I need help with the formula to convert this problem:
A penny weighs 2.63 grams. How many tons does this penny weigh?
Thanks!

 

[mmm4444bot]

Hello nmiller51:

There are different methods to convert from one unit of measure to another.

In this exercise, one way is to look up how many tons equal 1 gram, and then multiply that by 2.63.

If you can't find that information, then another way is to form unit-conversion factors from basic information that you can find. Like the following.

2000 pounds = 1 ton

1 pound = 16 oz

1 oz = 28.34952 grams

Multiplying some number of grams by the conversion factor (1 oz)/(28.34952 grams) converts to ounces.

Multiplying ounces by the conversion factor (1 pound)/(16 oz) converts to pounds.

Continuing with the conversion factor (1 ton)/(2000 pounds) converts to tons.

Notice how the units cancel, when using conversion factors.

\(\displaystyle \frac{grams}{1} \cdot \frac{ounces}{grams} \cdot \frac{pounds}{ounces} \cdot \frac{tons}{pounds} = \frac{tons}{1}\)

These cancellations tell us how to form the conversion-factor ratios. In other words, we know that we want to use (1 oz)/(28.34952 grams) instead of (28.34952 grams)/(1 oz).

Does any of this look familiar? Can you tell us what you already know about unit conversions? For instance, are you currently studying a particular method?

Cheers,

~ Mark