How many centimeters would 7.8 inches be equal to if an inch is approximately 2.54 cm
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To convert inches to centimeters, we can use the conversion factor that 1 inch equals approximately 2.54 centimeters. Therefore, to convert 7.8 inches to centimeters, we simply multiply 7.8 by 2.54.7.8 inches×2.54 cminch=19.812 cm7.8 \, \text{inches} \times 2.54 \, \frac{\text{cm}}{\text{inch}} = 19.812 \, \text{cm}7.8inches×2.54inchcm=19.812cm
So, 7.8 inches is approximately equal to 19.812 centimeters.
Explanation
This conversion process relies on the relationship between inches and centimeters in the metric system. The inch is a unit of length used primarily in the United States, while the centimeter is part of the metric system, which is used internationally. The metric system is based on powers of ten, which makes it more straightforward for calculations like these.
The conversion factor of 2.54 cm per inch comes from the standard definition of the inch, which was formally agreed upon in the 1950s by several countries. Prior to this, there were slight variations in the definition of an inch depending on the country. In 1959, an international agreement standardized the inch, making it exactly 2.54 cm in length.
To convert inches to centimeters, you multiply the number of inches by the conversion factor, 2.54. This simple multiplication allows us to switch from one unit to another with high precision. The result of 19.812 cm is a precise measurement, and it highlights how exact the conversion factor of 2.54 is in ensuring accurate results when switching between these units.
This method can be applied to any length measurement in inches. For instance, if you wanted to convert 10 inches into centimeters, you would multiply 10 by 2.54, resulting in 25.4 cm. The same approach works for any value in inches. By using this conversion factor, you can easily work with both systems of measurement in daily life, science, and various technical fields.
