Converting from centimeters (cm) to inches (in) is a simple mathematical process that can be easily done by following these steps:
Step 1: Understand the Conversion Factor
The conversion factor between cm and in is 1 cm = 0.393701 inches. This means that for every 1 cm, there are 0.393701 inches.
Step 2: Write down the given measurement
Let’s say we have a length of 20 cm that we want to convert to inches. We would write it as 20 cm.
Step 3: Set up the Conversion Equation
We can use the conversion factor to set up an equation where cm and in are on opposite sides of the equal sign, like this: 1 cm = 0.393701 in.
Step 4: Cancel out the units
In order to cancel out the unit we want to convert from (cm), we can multiply our given measurement by the conversion factor. This will leave us with the unit we want to convert to (in).
20 cm x 1 cm = 20 cm x 0.393701 in
The cm unit on the left side of the equation cancels out with the cm unit on the right side, leaving us with:
20 in = 20 cm x 0.393701 in
Step 5: Solve the equation
Now, we can simply multiply 20 cm by 0.393701 in to get the equivalent value in inches.
20 cm x 0.393701 in = 7.87402 in
This means that 20 cm is equivalent to 7.87402 inches.
Step 6: Check your answer
To ensure the accuracy of our conversion, we can use a calculator or mental math to double check our answer. 20 cm is approximately 7.87 in, so our answer of 7.87402 in is relatively close and therefore correct.
Therefore, the final conversion from cm to in is 20 cm = 7.87402 in.
Remember, always check the measurement units and carefully follow the steps to ensure an accurate conversion. With practice, converting between units of length will become second nature to you.