GED Mathematical Reasoning TestQuantitative Problem Solving with Rational NumbersMedium
A chemist is preparing a solution. She needs 3/5 of a liter of a chemical. She only has a measuring beaker marked in milliliters. How many milliliters of the chemical does she need? (Note: 1 liter = 1000 milliliters)
- A300 ml
- B500 ml
- C600 ml
- D750 ml
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 600 ml
First, convert the fraction to a decimal: 3/5 = 0.6. Then, multiply this decimal by the conversion factor for liters to milliliters: 0.6 liters * 1000 milliliters/liter = 600 milliliters.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect. This would be 3/10 of a liter.
- B. Incorrect. This is 1/2 of a liter, or 5/10.
- D. Incorrect. This would be 3/4 of a liter.
Fractional Unit Conversion
Fractional unit conversion involves converting a quantity expressed as a fraction of one unit into another unit, often using a known conversion factor.
- Understand the relationship between the two units (e.g., 1 liter = 1000 ml).
- Convert the fraction to a decimal or keep it as a fraction.
- Multiply the fractional quantity by the conversion factor.
- Ensure the final answer is in the desired unit.
Memory trick: Fraction first, then multiply by the factor, to change the liquid's character.