Convert 12 liters to gallons
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
To convert 12 liters to gallons, we use the conversion factor:
1 liter ≈ 0.264172 gallons.
So,
[
12 \text{ liters} \times 0.264172 \approx 3.170064 \text{ gallons}
]
Rounding to the nearest tenth:
[
3.2 \text{ gallons}
]
Explanation:
1. Understanding the Conversion Factor
In the metric system, volume is commonly measured in liters, whereas the imperial or US customary system measures it in gallons. Since these two systems differ, converting between liters and gallons requires a specific conversion factor. One liter is roughly equivalent to 0.264172 gallons. This number is derived from precise scientific measurements to align the two units accurately.
2. Setting Up the Conversion Calculation
To convert any number of liters to gallons, simply multiply the volume in liters by the conversion factor (0.264172). For example, here we started with 12 liters. By multiplying:
[
12 \times 0.264172 = 3.170064
]
3. Rounding the Result
Because the conversion factor leads to a decimal with multiple places, the result is not an even number. We are asked to round this answer to the nearest tenth, making it easier to work with and remember. In this case, 3.170064 rounds to 3.2, as the tenths digit becomes final after rounding.
4. Why Conversion Is Important
Converting between liters and gallons is useful in various fields, such as healthcare, cooking, and travel. In healthcare, fluid volumes are often in milliliters or liters but may need conversion when communicating with others who use gallons.