The Universal Calculation Engine
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The Universal Calculation Engine

Units and Conversions

Attach units to numbers; convert by multiplying by a fraction equal to 1 (same quantity, two names).

Start this lessonUnit versus number

Conversion factor

Example: 1 mi ≈ 1.609 km. To convert 10 mi to km, multiply 10 by 1.609 km/mi. The distance is the same; the unit label changes.

Convert

Mistakes

  • Adding cm and m without converting.
  • Rounding too early in a long chain.

Use the calculator

FAQ

Why multiply by one?

A conversion written as equal quantities in a fraction equals 1; multiplying by 1 keeps the value.