5 Feet 8 Inches In Cm

Decoding the Height: A Comprehensive Guide to Converting 5 Feet 8 Inches to Centimeters

Height conversion, while seemingly simple, often presents challenges, particularly when dealing with mixed units like feet and inches. Knowing how to accurately convert these measurements is crucial in various contexts, from international travel and online shopping to healthcare and sports. This article focuses specifically on converting 5 feet 8 inches into centimeters, addressing common misconceptions and providing a clear, step-by-step guide to ensure accurate results. We'll explore different methods, address potential sources of error, and answer frequently asked questions to demystify this common conversion problem.

Understanding the Conversion Factors

The foundation of any accurate conversion lies in understanding the relationship between the units involved. One inch is approximately equal to 2.54 centimeters. This is a fundamental conversion factor that we'll repeatedly use throughout our calculations. Similarly, one foot equals 12 inches. Therefore, to convert 5 feet 8 inches to centimeters, we must first convert the entire height into either inches or directly into centimeters using a combined approach.

Method 1: Converting to Inches First

This method involves a two-step process: first converting feet to inches and then converting the total inches to centimeters.

Step 1: Convert feet to inches:

We have 5 feet. Since 1 foot = 12 inches, we multiply:

5 feet 12 inches/foot = 60 inches

Step 2: Convert total inches to centimeters:

Now we add the 8 inches to the 60 inches obtained in Step 1:

60 inches + 8 inches = 68 inches

Finally, we convert 68 inches to centimeters using the conversion factor 1 inch ≈ 2.54 cm:

68 inches 2.54 cm/inch ≈ 172.72 cm

Therefore, 5 feet 8 inches is approximately equal to 172.72 centimeters.

Method 2: A Direct Conversion Approach

This method combines both conversions into a single calculation, eliminating the intermediate step of finding the total inches.

Step 1: Convert feet to centimeters:

We have 5 feet. Using the conversion factors (1 foot = 12 inches and 1 inch ≈ 2.54 cm), we can directly convert feet to centimeters:

5 feet 12 inches/foot 2.54 cm/inch = 152.4 cm

Step 2: Convert inches to centimeters:

We have 8 inches. We convert these directly to centimeters:

8 inches 2.54 cm/inch = 20.32 cm

Step 3: Add the results:

Finally, we add the centimeters obtained in Step 1 and Step 2:

152.4 cm + 20.32 cm = 172.72 cm

This confirms the result obtained using Method 1. Both methods yield the same result, demonstrating the flexibility in approaching the conversion problem.

Addressing Potential Errors

The most common error arises from using an inaccurate conversion factor or performing incorrect arithmetic calculations. Always use the precise conversion factor of 2.54 cm per inch. Double-checking your calculations, particularly when working with decimal numbers, is crucial to avoid mistakes. Using a calculator can minimize the risk of arithmetic errors.

Choosing the Right Method

Both methods are equally valid. Method 1 is arguably easier to understand for beginners, while Method 2 offers a more concise approach for those comfortable with multiple conversions within a single calculation. The choice depends primarily on personal preference and familiarity with mathematical operations.

Summary

Converting 5 feet 8 inches to centimeters requires understanding the conversion factors between inches and centimeters (1 inch ≈ 2.54 cm) and between feet and inches (1 foot = 12 inches). Both the two-step method (converting to inches first) and the direct conversion method yield the same accurate result: approximately 172.72 centimeters. Careful attention to the conversion factor and meticulous calculation are crucial for obtaining accurate results and avoiding common errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the conversion factor 2.54 cm/inch exact? While often rounded to 2.54, the exact conversion factor is defined as 2.54 cm/inch, making it precise for all practical purposes.

2. Can I use an online converter? Yes, many online converters are available; however, it's still beneficial to understand the underlying calculation to ensure accuracy and avoid reliance on potentially flawed tools.

3. What if I need to convert other heights? The same principles apply. Convert the feet to inches, add the remaining inches, and then multiply by 2.54 cm/inch.

4. How do I convert centimeters back to feet and inches? Divide the centimeters by 2.54 to get inches, then divide the inches by 12 to get feet. The remainder represents the inches.

5. Are there any significant differences between using the approximate value (2.54) and a more precise value? For most everyday applications, the difference is negligible. However, in highly precise measurements, using a more precise value might be necessary.

Search Results:

5 ft 5 inches into meters? - Answers 10 Aug 2023 · Answer is 176.5 cm or 1.765 mTo convert feet and inches to Meters, first convert the to inches (5ft x 12 = 60 inches) then add the inches (60 + 9.5 = 69.5 inches).the conversion …

How many cm in 5ft 8 inches? - Answers How many centimeters tall is a person who stands five feet eight inches? 1 ft = 12 in 1 in = 2.54 cm (exactly) ⇒ 5ft 8 in = 5 x 12in + 8 in = 68 in = 68 x 2.54 cm = 172.72 cm ≈ 173 cm

What is 5 feet 8 inches converted into centimeters? - Answers First convert feet back to inches So, 12 inches = 1ft So, 5*12=60inches, 60+8=68 inches Now, the conversion of inches to cm is: 1 inches = 2.54 cm So just math again then, 68*2.54=

5 feet 10 inches converted to cm? - Answers 10 Aug 2023 · 1 foot = 30.48 cm. 1 inch = 2.54 cm If you multiply 5.11 times 12 and multiply that product by 2.54, you will convert feet to inches to cm. Your answer will be 155.75 cm. The …

What is 5 foot 8 inches in meters? - Answers 10 Aug 2023 · There are 2.54 cm to an inch. There are 68 inches in 5 feet 8 inches. 2.54 x 68 = 172 cm, or 1.72 meters

How many meters and centimeters in 5 feet 6 inches? - Answers 31 Aug 2023 · To convert 5 feet to meters, multiply by 0.3048 (1 foot = 0.3048 meters). To convert 8 inches to centimeters, multiply by 2.54 (1 inch = 2.54 cm). How many centimeterts in 5 feet 8 …

How many centimeters are in 5 feet 8.5 inches? - Answers There are 173.99 centimeters in 5 feet 8.5 inches. Solution: 1. 12 inches = 1 foot. You can express this as the fraction 12"/1' (read aloud as "12 inches per foot") 2. 2.54 centimeters = 1 inch ...

What is 5 ft 8 inches in meters? - Answers 28 Apr 2022 · What is 5 foot 8 inches in meters? There are 2.54 cm to an inch. There are 68 inches in 5 feet 8 inches. 2.54 x 68 = 172 cm, or 1.72 meters

How many cm is 5 foot 8 inches? - Answers 9 Aug 2023 · The answer is that 5 ft 8 in equals 172.72 cm (centimeters).Here is why:1 inches = 2.54 centimeters5 ft 8 in = 68 in x 2.54 = 172.72 cm

What is 5' 8'' in cm? - Answers 5 foot 8 inches = 68 inches = 172.7 centimeters (cm) Tags Length and Distance Subjects. ... 5 foot 8 inches = 68 inches = 172.7 centimeters (cm) Wiki User. ∙ 14y ago. This answer is: