Question

Convert the following weights in pounds to kilograms (round to the nearest tenth where indicated). \(63 \mathrm{lb}=\) _______ \(\mathrm{kg}\)

Short answer

63 lb is approximately 28.6 kg.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Conversion Factor

To convert from pounds to kilograms, we need to know the conversion factor. 1 pound is approximately equal to 0.453592 kilograms.

Apply the Conversion Factor

Multiply the weight in pounds by the conversion factor to convert it to kilograms. For 63 pounds, the calculation is:\[63 \text{ lb} \times 0.453592 \frac{\text{kg}}{\text{lb}} = 28.576296 \text{ kg}\]

Rounding to the Nearest Tenth

After performing the multiplication, round the result to the nearest tenth. For 28.576296 kg, rounding to the nearest tenth gives us 28.6 kg.

Key concepts

Pounds to Kilograms

Converting pounds to kilograms is a common task in various fields, such as science, medicine, and travel, as the metric system is widely used worldwide. Understanding this conversion is crucial for interpreting and comparing weights in these settings effectively.
To start, know that weight is a measure of the force of gravity acting on an object. In the U.S., weight is often expressed in pounds (lbs). However, in many other parts of the world, kilograms (kg) are used.
The key formula to remember is that 1 pound is approximately equal to 0.453592 kilograms. This number is an average that allows us to convert from one unit to another easily. By understanding this fundamental ratio, you can confidently translate weights from pounds into kilograms using simple multiplication.

Conversion Factor

The conversion factor is a critical element in translating measurements from one unit to another. Here, it is the bridge between pounds and kilograms. The conversion factor allows us to multiply a weight expressed in pounds by a specific number to obtain the equivalent weight in kilograms.
To break it down:

• The value of 1 pound is approximately 0.453592 kilograms.
• This means that per unit (or pound), there are just over 0.45 kilograms.
• Therefore, to convert any measurement in pounds to kilograms, multiply the number of pounds by 0.453592.

Using this conversion factor, you're effectively scaling the weight from one measurement system to another, ensuring accurate conversions every time. It's essential to use a consistent conversion factor to maintain precision in your calculations.

Rounding Decimals

Rounding decimals is often necessary when working with conversions to ensure the result is practical and easy to understand. After converting a weight from pounds to kilograms using the conversion factor, you may end up with a long decimal number. This can be cumbersome or not useful in certain practical situations.
For example, if you convert 63 pounds to kilograms, the precise result is 28.576296 kg. To round to the nearest tenth, you focus on the tenths place, considering the digit immediately after it.

• If the digit is 5 or greater, you round up.
• If it's less than 5, you round down.

Thus, 28.576296 becomes 28.6 kg, which is easier to communicate and understand. Rounding is a useful strategy for making precise numbers more user-friendly while maintaining a reasonable degree of accuracy.