Here's why:
* Conversion factors relate two equivalent quantities. For example, 1 meter = 100 centimeters. This means the ratio 1 meter/100 centimeters or 100 centimeters/1 meter equals one.
* They are used to change units without altering the value of a quantity. You can multiply a measurement by a conversion factor to change its units. Since the conversion factor is essentially equal to 1, you're not changing the actual value, just the way it is expressed.
Example:
If you want to convert 5 meters to centimeters, you can use the conversion factor 100 centimeters/1 meter:
5 meters * (100 centimeters / 1 meter) = 500 centimeters
The "meter" units cancel out, leaving you with centimeters.
