Skill: Convert customary length units

Explanation and Free Practice Resources

Converts measurements among customary linear units—inch, foot, yard, and mile—using fixed equivalences such as 12 inches = 1 foot, 3 feet = 1 yard, and 5,280 feet = 1 mile. The learner interprets conversion as multiplying or dividing by a unit ratio that preserves length, works with whole-number and familiar fractional or decimal measures, and recognizes that larger units correspond to smaller numerical values; area, volume, metric units, and generalized dimensional analysis are outside this scope.

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Detailed Explanation: Convert customary length units

To convert a customary length, use an equal unit relationship:

$12$ inches $= 1$ foot
$3$ feet $= 1$ yard
$5{,}280$ feet $= 1$ mile

Choose multiplication or division based on the units:

To change to a smaller unit, multiply.
To change to a larger unit, divide.

Example: Convert $3.5$ feet to inches.

Since inches are smaller than feet, multiply by $12$ :

3.5\text{ feet}\times \frac{12\text{ inches}}{1\text{ foot}}

The feet cancel, leaving inches:

3.5\times 12=42

So,

\boxed{3.5\text{ feet}=42\text{ inches}}

The number became larger because the same length is being counted with smaller units.

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Measurement Conversion - Customary Length Units with Sub Units

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