Unit Conversion: Examples

Examples

This page contains a number of examples that demonstrate the powerful features of Unit Conversion

Example 1: Simple Conversion Problem

In this example, we convert from 100 pounds to kilograms. Obviously this could be done almost as easily by hand, and certainly is within the capabilities of other products.
  • In this case we want to convert 100 pounds to kilograms,so we enter "100" in the Convert From box
  • The original value is expressed in pounds, so we enter "lb" in the Input units... box
  • We want the conversion to kilograms, so we enter "kg" in the Output units... box
  • The result (about 45 kilograms) appears in the Result window when the "Click to Convert" button is clicked

Simple unit conversion sample problem, pounds to kilograms

Example 2: Complex Unit Combinations

This is a more complex example, in which the advanced parsing capabilities of Unit Conversion are used to "parse" a complex combination of units. Click here or the Features link to the left for a more in-depth discussion of this approach, which gives Unit Conversion the ability to convert between an infinite number of unit groupings.

Demonstrates the advanced unit parsing feature of unit conversion
Return to Top of Page

Example 3: Molecular Weight Calculations / Conversions

Unit Conversion includes a molecular weight calculator; this is a unique capability of this program. The example below shows how this capability can be used to convert a value expressed in moles of methane to one expressed in mass units. For more details of this feature, click here or the Features link to the left. Just want to calculate the molecular weight of a species? See Example 3A below

Unit Coversion incorporates a molecular weight calculator
Return to Top of Page

Example 3A: Molecular Weight Calculation Features

To calculate the molecular weight of a species, simply convert 1 mole to grams, as shown below. This example shows some of the advanced capabilities of the molecular weight calculator, which can handle functional groups such as the "OH" in aluminum hydroxide... Al(OH)3 which has a molecular weight of 78 grams.

Unit Conversion molecular weight calculator has advanced capabilities, handles complex expressions
Return to Top of Page

Example 4: Non-Integer Exponents

It may not happen often, but it is sometimes necessary to consider groupings of units that contain non-integer exponents. This is especially true when working with dimensionless groupings. This example converts the specific speed of a turbine from one set of units to another and includes the square root of a volumetric flowrate and a specific enthalpy raised to the 3/4 power.

Unit Conversion can convert expressions that incorporate non-integer unit exponents
Return to Top of Page

Example 5: Adding New Units to Database

Unit Conversion includes a database of predefined units from which any combination of units can be assembled. It is sometimes convenient to add a new unit to this database. Click on the image below to see a movie showing how easy it is to define and use new units from within the program. It is also possible to import new units from a file.

Unit Conversion has features that allow new unit definitions to be easily added to its database
It is also possible to read new unit definitions from a file. Please see Example 8 below.

Return to Top of Page

Example 6: Excel© Integration

Unit Conversion includes an Add-In for Microsoft Excel© that allows all of the features of the standalone program to be accessed from within a spreadsheet, with inputs and outputs tied to spreadsheet cells if desired. Click on the image below to view a movie demonstrating Unit Conversion's Excel interface.

Unit Conversion shareware is fully functional within Microsoft Excel
Return to Top of Page

Example 7: Excel© Functions

In addition to the form-driven interface for Microsoft Excel©, Unit Conversion adds two new functions to the Excel interface. "UC" operates just like Excel's built-in "convert" function but is much more powerful. "MW" calculates molecular weights. While these functions are useful, they are only available if a registered version of Unit Conversion is installed. Click here to see a video demonstrating this capability.

Return to Top of Page

Example 8: Reading New Units from File

Unit Conversion includes a database of predefined units from which any combination of units can be assembled, but it is often desirable to add new unit definitions to the database. In addition to the "Define New Units" feature described in Example 5 it is possible to read new units from a file. For a more in-depth discussion of the structure of this file, please click here or on the "Features..." link at the top left of this page.

Click here to see a movie illustrating this feature.

We anticipate providing a series of unit definition files grouped into categories which will be available for download. Ultimately we hope to provide a forum in which users can post definitions that they have found helpful.

Return to Top of Page

Unit Conversion Home

Examples

Compare Unit Conversion to other Packages

Features and Technical Discussion

Download Unit Conversion

Installation Instructions

Unit Conversion Support Forum

Contact us

J. A. Peters and Associates Consulting