The density of iron is 7.86 g/cm³. What is its density in pounds per cubic inch (lb/in³)?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the given density of iron: 7.86 g/cm^3.
2. Convert grams to pounds using the conversion factor: 1 pound = 453.592 grams.
3. Convert cubic centimeters to cubic inches using the conversion factor: 1 inch = 2.54 cm, therefore 1 cm^3 = (1/2.54)^3 in^3.
4. Combine the conversion factors to convert the density from g/cm^3 to lb/in^3.
5. Perform the unit conversion by multiplying the given density by the appropriate conversion factors.

Key Concepts

Density

Density is defined as mass per unit volume, typically expressed in grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) in the metric system. It is a physical property that helps identify substances and can be used to determine whether an object will float or sink in a fluid. Understanding density is crucial for converting between different units of measurement.

Unit Conversion

Unit conversion involves changing a quantity expressed in one set of units to another set of units. This process is essential in chemistry when comparing or calculating properties like density in different measurement systems, such as converting from metric units (g/cm³) to imperial units (lb/in³). Familiarity with conversion factors is necessary for accurate calculations.

Conversion Factors

Conversion factors are ratios that express how many of one unit are equal to another unit. For example, to convert grams to pounds, one can use the factor that 1 pound is approximately 453.592 grams. In the context of density, knowing the appropriate conversion factors allows for the accurate transformation of density values between different unit systems.