There are about 2.54 centimeters in 1 inch. if a segment is 2.7 centimeters long, how many inches is it, rounded to the nearest hundredth?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
To convert 2.7 centimeters to inches, you can use the given conversion factor: 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters. By setting up a proportion, we can determine how many inches are in 2.7 centimeters:
[
\text{inches} = \frac{2.7 \text{ cm}}{2.54 \text{ cm/inch}}
]
Dividing 2.7 by 2.54:
[
\text{inches} = \frac{2.7}{2.54} \approx 1.06
]
So, 2.7 centimeters is approximately 1.06 inches, rounded to the nearest hundredth.
Explanation:
To understand this calculation, start by recognizing that a conversion factor shows the relationship between two units of measurement. Here, 2.54 centimeters is equal to 1 inch, which allows us to convert between centimeters and inches.
- Setting Up the Conversion: Since the problem provides the measurement in centimeters, and we want to find the length in inches, we need to convert from a smaller metric unit (centimeters) to a larger imperial unit (inches). The conversion factor indicates that every 2.54 centimeters equals 1 inch.
- Using Division for Conversion: To convert centimeters to inches, divide the number of centimeters by the number of centimeters per inch. This is because centimeters cancel out in the calculation, leaving us with the result in inches.
- Rounding: After performing the division, we get 1.06 inches, which is already rounded to the nearest hundredth. Rounding is essential for practical applications since measurements are often not exact due to limitations in precision.
- Practical Applications: Knowing how to convert units is essential in fields that use different measurement systems, such as nursing, science, and engineering, where accurate conversions ensure correct interpretations and applications.