Question

An inch in equal to about 2.54 centimeters. Write an expression which estimates the number of centimeters in x inches. Then estimate the number of centimeters in 12inches.

Answer 1

1 inch = 2.54 centimeters. this is a ratio.

expression: x inches * _2.54 centimeters_ = # of centimeters in x inches
1 inch
the reason the 1 inch is in the denominator is to cancel out the inches for x so that you are only left with centimeters.

estimate: 12 inch * _2.54 centimeters_ = 30.48 centimeters.
1 inch