Dimensional Analysis
Click or drag conversion factor tiles into the slots. Build a path from the starting unit to the target unit.
Common Questions
What is dimensional analysis?
Dimensional analysis is a problem-solving method that uses conversion factors to change units. You multiply by fractions equal to 1 (e.g., 1000 m / 1 km) so the unwanted units cancel and the desired units remain.
How do you set up a dimensional analysis problem?
Start with the given quantity and units. Multiply by conversion factors arranged so the units you want to cancel are on the opposite side of the fraction. Continue chaining factors until you reach the desired units.
What is a conversion factor?
A conversion factor is a fraction that equals 1, relating two equivalent quantities with different units. Examples: 1 km / 1000 m, 1 mol / 6.022 × 10²³ particles, 1 L / 1000 mL. They can be flipped as needed.
How do you handle multi-step conversions?
Chain multiple conversion factors together in one calculation. For example, to convert km/hr to m/s: multiply by (1000 m / 1 km) and then by (1 hr / 3600 s). All intermediate units cancel.