Convert 2.5 miles to km. a. 4.0 km b.3.40 km c.250 km d. 0.25 km e.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
To convert miles to kilometers, we use the conversion factor:
1 mile = 1.60934 kilometers
Thus, for 2.5 miles:
[
2.5 \, \text{miles} \times 1.60934 \, \text{km/mile} = 4.02335 \, \text{km}
]
This rounds to 4.0 km, making the correct answer a. 4.0 km.
Explanation:
Why Conversion Factors Are Used
A conversion factor is a ratio used to express the same quantity in different units. Here, the factor ( 1.60934 ) represents the number of kilometers in one mile. By multiplying the miles by this factor, you switch from the mile measurement system to the kilometer system.
Why This Factor?
The mile is part of the imperial system, historically used in countries like the United States. Kilometers are part of the metric system, used globally and recognized for its simplicity and universality in scientific and daily applications. The conversion factor ( 1.60934 ) is derived from precise measurements relating the two systems.
Calculation Steps
- Write down the given value in miles (2.5 miles).
- Multiply by the conversion factor ( 1.60934 ) to change the unit.
- The result is 4.02335 kilometers.
- Round the result to one decimal place for simplicity and practical use: ( 4.0 \, \text{km} ).
Importance of Unit Conversion
Understanding unit conversions is critical in science, engineering, travel, and everyday life. For instance, international travel often requires knowledge of distances in kilometers rather than miles. Accurate conversion allows seamless communication and calculation across regions using different systems of measurement.
Thus, the final answer is 4.0 km, corresponding to option a.