User:HBurr22/Sandbox

Unit factor analysis (UFA), an introduction:

Unit factor analysis also known among other identifiers as the “conversion system” is a method of developing solutions to many elementary and complex problems in science and mathematics. It is based on the fact that from any statement of equality involving units, such as                                2.2 pounds = 1 kilogram can be obtained two multipliers, or factors, who’s value is one (1). For example: dividing each side of the above statement of equality by 2.2# the expression		2.2#        1Kg --  =  -                        2.2#        2.2#                          From which we obtain the factor that equals one (1) 1Kg/2.2 lbs). If we divide both sides of the equation by 1 Kilogram, we obtain the unit factor (2.2 #/1 Kg).  An example of the usefulness of the system is that it enables one to organize everyday problems in a consistent manner that is easy to compute with a calculator and each step is suggested by the previous step e.g.

What is the price of gasoline in Euros per liter (excluding taxes), if the price is $2.50 per gallon? We probably know many of the, so called, conversion factors, and if we do not know them or if they have constantly changing value, as does Euros/Dollar, we can easily look them up. Start with what is given or known

($2.50/gallon) X (1 gallon/4 quarts) X (1.06 quart/ 1 liter) X                         ( 1 Euro/ $1.30) = 0.51 Euro per liter.

This analysis makes it difficult for a thoughtful person to make computational errors like the one converting Kilograms to pounds that was made on page 419 of the first edition of The “World is Flat” by Tom Friedman. There is no need to “decide whether to multiply or divide”. Always multiply by the appropriate factor or fraction. Also this is another answer to the perennial question, “Why should I study algebra?”

For more information go to “Unit factor analysis” on google or Wikipedia.