Final answer:
In metric conversions, the unit you are converting from is placed on the bottom of the conversion fraction. Conversion factors are used to cancel out the original unit and convert to the new one, as in converting meters to centimeters with a factor of 100 cm/1 m. Remember, a conversion factor is like multiplying by 1, preserving the physical quantity while changing units.
Step-by-step explanation:
When solving a metric conversion problem, determining which value to place on the bottom of the conversion fraction is crucial. The concept map for conversions suggests that the unit you are converting from should be placed at the bottom of the fraction.
For instance, converting meters to centimeters involves identifying the given data, determining the unit for the final answer, and establishing proper conversion factors to cancel out the original units. We know that 100 centimeters (cm) is equal to 1 meter (m), which allows us to construct a conversion factor like 100 cm/1 m or its reciprocal, depending on the direction of the conversion. In a conversion, you essentially multiply by 1 because the quantity expressed by the conversion factor remains the same, despite differing units.
To remember which value goes on the bottom, recall that you are converting from the original unit. For example, to convert 1 hour to seconds, you would use a factor where 'hour' is on the bottom and 'seconds' on top, and multiply through until you reach the desired unit.