Factor label method

Here's an approach that can increase your problem-solving skills, even if you're "math-challenged".                     
This method can guide you through many kinds of chemistry problems.  It has helped many students!

1.  Study the problem.  Decide units needed for answer, and look for equalities that might be useful.

2.  Write the known quantity with unit label

          if unsure, choose a starting point that resembles the answer.

3.  Multiply known quantity by a conversion factor:

          a fraction, equal to one

          allows you to cancel unwanted units

          introduces desired units if possible

4.  May have to repeat step 3 until all units cancel except the ones you need for the answer

5.  Do the arithmetic and label units of answer


 Back to environmental chemistry page