To convert 1/2 inch to mm, we first need to understand the relationship between these two units of length. An inch is a commonly used unit of length in the Imperial and US Customary systems, while the millimetre (mm) is a unit of length in the International System of Units (SI).
Step 1: Identify the Conversion Factor
The conversion factor between inches and millimetres is 1 inch = 25.4 millimetres. This means that 1 inch is equivalent to 25.4 millimetres.
Step 2: Write Down the Given Value
In this case, the given value is 1/2 inch. We can write this as 1/2 in or 0.5 in.
Step 3: Set Up the Conversion Equation
Using the conversion factor, we can set up the conversion equation as:
0.5 in x 25.4 mm / 1 in.
Step 4: Cancel Out the Unit of Inches
To convert from inches to millimetres, we need to cancel out the unit of inches. This can be done by placing it in the denominator (bottom) of the fraction.
Step 5: Perform the Calculation
Now, we can simply multiply the numbers in the fraction.
0.5 in x 25.4 mm / 1 in = 12.7 mm.
Step 6: Write the Final Answer
The final answer is 12.7 mm. This means that 1/2 inch is equivalent to 12.7 millimetres.
Therefore, to convert any value in inches to millimetres, simply multiply the value by 25.4. In this case, we multiplied 0.5 inches by 25.4 to get 12.7 mm.
In conclusion, to convert 1/2 inch to mm, we used the conversion factor of 1 inch = 25.4 mm and followed the simple steps outlined above. Remember to always be careful with units when performing conversions and double-check your calculation to ensure accuracy.