Final answer:
To solve a metric conversion problem, the unit you are converting from should be placed in the denominator of the conversion factor so that it cancels out, leaving you with the unit you want to convert to.
Step-by-step explanation:
When trying to solve a metric conversion problem, to determine which value in the conversion factor to put on the bottom of the conversion fraction, the correct approach is to place the unit that you are converting from on the bottom. This is because you want to cancel out this original unit and end up with the new unit you are trying to find. This method ensures that during the dimensional analysis, the original units cancel out, leaving only the desired unit as part of your answer. For instance, when converting from meters to centimeters, the conversion factor used is 100 centimeters/1 meter, with the original unit (meters) in the denominator to cancel it out with the meters in your original number.
This process involves multiplying the number you wish to convert by the conversion factor. Remember, in the conversion factor, the units are equal quantities expressed in different units. By setting up the fraction correctly, when you multiply, the top numbers are multiplied and the bottom numbers divided, which allows for the units to cancel appropriately and reach the desired unit.