Convert 8.7 ng to kg.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
8.7 nanograms (ng) = 8.7 × 10⁻¹² kilograms (kg)
Explanation:
To convert from nanograms (ng) to kilograms (kg), we need to understand the relationship between the units in the metric system. The metric system uses powers of ten to relate different units of mass.
Here is the basic conversion path:
1 kilogram (kg) = 1,000,000,000 nanograms (ng)
This means:
1 ng = 1 × 10⁻⁹ grams
Since 1 kilogram = 1,000 grams, then:
1 ng = 1 × 10⁻¹² kilograms
Now, to convert 8.7 nanograms into kilograms, multiply the amount in nanograms by the conversion factor:
8.7 ng × (1 × 10⁻¹² kg / 1 ng) = 8.7 × 10⁻¹² kg
So, 8.7 nanograms equals 8.7 × 10⁻¹² kilograms.
This type of conversion is common in scientific work, especially in fields like chemistry, biology, and physics, where very small masses are often measured. Nanograms are typically used when dealing with tiny quantities, such as the mass of molecules, small particles, or trace elements in a sample. However, in engineering or physics contexts, it is sometimes useful to express everything in standard units like kilograms for consistency in calculations.
Using scientific notation helps express very small or very large numbers clearly and compactly. It also makes mathematical operations like multiplication or division easier. For example, instead of writing 0.0000000000087 kg, it is easier and clearer to write 8.7 × 10⁻¹² kg.
Understanding unit conversion is essential for accurate data interpretation and problem-solving in scientific and technical fields.