Understanding height conversions, especially between the metric system (centimeters) and the imperial system (feet and inches), can be tricky. This article will guide you through the process of converting 170 centimeters (cm) to feet and inches, explaining the method in a clear and concise manner. We’ll break down the conversion into manageable steps, providing practical examples and answering frequently asked questions to ensure a thorough understanding.
Understanding the Units
Before diving into the conversion, let's understand the units involved. Centimeters (cm) are a unit of length in the metric system, where 100 centimeters equal one meter. Feet and inches are units of length in the imperial system, with 12 inches making up one foot. The conversion between these systems requires a specific conversion factor.
The Conversion Factor: Centimeters to Inches
The key to converting 170 cm to feet and inches lies in the conversion factor between centimeters and inches. One inch is approximately equal to 2.54 centimeters. This means that to convert centimeters to inches, we need to divide the number of centimeters by 2.54.
Therefore, to convert 170 cm to inches:
170 cm / 2.54 cm/inch ≈ 66.93 inches
Converting Inches to Feet and Inches
Now that we have the height in inches (approximately 66.93 inches), we need to convert this to feet and inches. Since there are 12 inches in a foot, we can divide the total inches by 12 to find the number of feet. The remainder will represent the remaining inches.
66.93 inches / 12 inches/foot ≈ 5.58 feet
This means we have approximately 5 full feet. To find the remaining inches, we multiply the decimal part (0.58) by 12:
0.58 feet 12 inches/foot ≈ 7 inches
Therefore, 170 cm is approximately 5 feet and 7 inches.
Practical Examples: Applying the Conversion
Let's solidify our understanding with a few practical examples:
Example 1: A basketball player is listed as 170 cm tall. Using our conversion, we know their height is approximately 5 feet 7 inches. This information is useful for comparing their height to other players listed in feet and inches.
Example 2: You're buying a pair of pants online, and the size chart lists inseam lengths in centimeters. If you need a 67 cm inseam and the online store uses feet and inches, you can convert 67 cm to inches (67 cm / 2.54 cm/inch ≈ 26.4 inches), which is approximately 2 feet and 2.4 inches. You would likely need to round this up or down depending on the available sizes.
Example 3: You are designing a doorway and need to ensure it's tall enough for someone who is 170 cm tall. Knowing this converts to approximately 5 feet 7 inches will help you determine the minimum height required for comfortable passage.
Key Insights and Takeaways
Converting between metric and imperial units requires understanding the conversion factors and applying them methodically. While the conversion of 170 cm to feet and inches results in an approximate value (due to rounding), it provides a close and practical estimation for everyday use. Remember that the conversion factor of 2.54 cm per inch is crucial for accurate conversions. Always consider rounding appropriately depending on the context of the conversion (e.g., measuring for clothing versus measuring for construction).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the conversion of 170 cm to 5 feet 7 inches exact? No, it's an approximation. The conversion factor is an approximation, and rounding introduces slight inaccuracies.
2. Can I use a calculator or online converter for this? Yes, many online converters and calculators are available to perform this conversion quickly and accurately.
3. Why are there two different systems of measurement? Historically, different systems developed independently, and while the metric system is now globally preferred for its simplicity, the imperial system remains in use in several countries.
4. What if I need to convert from feet and inches back to centimeters? Reverse the process. First, convert feet to inches (multiply by 12), add the remaining inches, and then multiply the total inches by 2.54 to get centimeters.
5. Are there other common height conversions I should know? Yes, familiarizing yourself with other common conversions, such as meters to feet and inches, or other centimeter-to-inch conversions, can be beneficial.
By understanding the process and the rationale behind it, converting heights between centimeters and feet and inches becomes straightforward. Using the provided method and the key insights, you can confidently handle similar conversions in the future.
Note: Conversion is based on the latest values and formulas.
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