When performing dimensional analysis, we usually use conversion factors. What is a conversion factor?

A conversion factor is a variable that transforms the dimension of one variable into the terms of another variable.

Explanation:

Let be and two variables with diferent dimensions (units), is a conversion if transforms the dimension of one variable into the terms of the other variable. That is:

(1)

Where:

- Input, [input unit]

- Output, [output unit]

- Conversion factor, [output unit] per [input unit]

in scientific notation, the value of the  speed of light in a vacuum

  will be written as 2.995 * 10^8. when this value is represented in the form of

  a * 10^b, then, a = 2.995 and b = 8.

the value of the speed of light in a vacuum given above can also be rounded up to approximately 300000000. in this case, the scientific notation will be written as 3 *10^8.