Which of the following is the correct conversion from feet to meters?
a. 1 foot = 0.3048 m
b. 1 foot = 3.048 m
c. 1 foot = 1.609 m
d. 1foot = 0.0929 m
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a. 1 foot = 0.3048 m.
To convert from feet to meters, you use the conversion factor of 1 foot = 0.3048 meters. This means that for every 1 foot of length, you can multiply it by 0.3048 to obtain the equivalent distance in meters. This conversion factor comes from the standard definition of a foot in terms of the metric system.
The foot is a unit of length that originated in ancient civilizations, with varying definitions depending on the region or time period. However, in modern measurement systems, the international foot is defined as exactly 0.3048 meters. This was standardized in 1959 by the United States and English-speaking nations to ensure consistency in measurements.
To apply the conversion, you simply multiply the number of feet by 0.3048. For example, if you have 5 feet and want to convert it to meters, you would calculate:
5 feet × 0.3048 meters/foot = 1.524 meters.
This conversion is useful in various fields, including construction, engineering, and science, where measurements are often given in feet but need to be understood in the metric system.
The other options are incorrect because they do not match the established conversion factor. Option b, 1 foot = 3.048 meters, is incorrect as it suggests a much larger distance. Option c, 1 foot = 1.609 meters, is close to the conversion factor for miles to kilometers. Option d, 1 foot = 0.0929 meters, is also incorrect as it is far too small.
In summary, the standard conversion from feet to meters is 1 foot = 0.3048 meters, and understanding this conversion allows for accurate translation between the imperial and metric systems.