How to Convert 2.1 Centimeters to Inches

Centimeters and Inches

Centimeters and inches are two different types of length measurements. Centimeters are part of the metric system, and inches are part of the standard system. Centimeters represent smaller increments than inches. When converting between centimeters and inches, you should know that there are 2.54 centimeters in 1.00 inch. In order to convert, for example, 2.1 centimeters to inches, use dimensional analysis in order to set up a ratio between the amount of centimeters that you are given, and the amount of centimeters within one inch.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper
• Calculator

Instructions

1. Use dimensional analysis in order to set up a ratio. In order to convert 2.10 centimeters to inches, you must write the proper ratio. The first ratio should have 2.10 centimeters in the numerator, and one in the denominator. Put a multiplication sign between the first and second ratio, which should have 1.00 inch in the numerator, and 2.54 centimeters in the denominator. The second ratio represents the conversion factor.

2. Cross out the units of centimeters in the numerator of the first ratio, and in the denominator of the second ratio. In order to convert 2.1 centimeters to inches, you need to understand the relationship between the units. Dimensional analysis is also referred to as unit analysis. The reason why you place the numbers and the units in the ratios is so that you can obtain a specific unit. The desired unit of this problem is inches. Therefore, it is necessary to cancel the centimeter units.

3. Divide 2.1 by 2.54. You should receive an answer of about 0.83. Therefore, there are approximately 0.83 inches in 2.1 centimeters.

References

• "U.S. Metric Association: Commonly Used Metric System Units And Symbols"