To convert 52 inches to feet without using dimensional analysis, you can use simple division or multiplication. Here are two different correct ways to write the exact answer and an explanation of why these methods are equivalent.
**Method 1: Division**
Since there are 12 inches in a foot, you can divide the number of inches by 12 to get the equivalent in feet.
Calculation:
52 inches ÷ 12 = 4.333… feet
This means that 52 inches is equal to 4 and 1/3 feet.
**Method 2: Multiplication**
Alternatively, you can think of the conversion factor as a fraction. Since 1 foot is equal to 12 inches, you can multiply the number of inches by the fraction (1 foot / 12 inches).
Calculation:
52 inches × (1 foot / 12 inches) = 4.333… feet
This also results in 4 and 1/3 feet.
**Why These Methods Are Equivalent**
Both methods essentially use the same conversion factor (1 foot = 12 inches) but apply it differently. Division directly uses the conversion factor to divide the number of inches, while multiplication uses the conversion factor as a fraction. Both approaches lead to the same result because they are mathematically equivalent. The key is understanding that 1 foot is equal to 12 inches, and both methods leverage this relationship to convert inches to feet.