Scientists use a technique called dimensional analysis to convert between units of measurement. The technique is based on the fact that multiplying any number by one doesn't change that number. For example, there are 12 inches in one foot. If you write this equivalence as a fraction, 1 foot/12 inches, your fraction equals one because 12 inches equals one foot. Now multiply this fraction by 36 inches: 1 foot/12 inches x 36 inches = 3 feet. Your inch units cancel, leaving only foot units; and because you have multiplied 36 inches by one, the 36 inches remain the same, only now it is converted into units of feet. Dimensional analysis is useful and fun. It's also your best way of converting from pounds per cubic feet to kilograms per cubic meter.
Instructions
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1
Write the value in pounds per cubic feet you want to convert to kilograms per cubic meter. For example, write "17."
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2
Find the product of the number you have written and 0.4536 using a calculator to convert your value to kilograms per cubic foot. One pound equals 0.4536 kilograms. For example, 17 x 0.4536 = 7.7112.
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3
Find the quotient of your answer and 0.0283 using a calculator to convert your value to kilograms per cubic meter. One cubic foot equals 0.0283 cubic meters. For example, 7.7112/0.0283 = 272.48. A value of 17 pounds per cubic foot equals 272.5 kilograms per cubic meter.
