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:

What is 5 x 8 feet in inches? - Answers 11 Aug 2023 · 4 feet is equal to 48 inches and 6 feet is equal to 72 inches. A rectangle which measured 4 feet by 6 feet would have an area of 3456 square inches.

What is 5 foot 8 inches in meters? - Answers What is 10 feet 8 inches in meters? 3.2 meters There are 12 inches in a foot There are 2.5 centimetres in an inch There are 100 centimetres in a metre.

What size is a 5 foot 8 inch women? - Answers 23 Dec 2022 · For the measurement of height the formulas are-: cm x 0.39* = in in x 2.54 = cm Therefore if a women is 5 foot 8 inches her height in centimeter is 5 foot x 12 inches =60 …

What is 5' 8'' in cm? - Answers 17 Sep 2023 · 5 foot 8 inches = 68 inches = 172.7 centimeters (cm)On page 115 of your reading material there is a chart showing the distance covered after a specified number of seconds …

What is 5 feet 8 inches converted into centimeters? - Answers 11 Aug 2023 · First convert feet back to inchesSo, 12 inches = 1ftSo, 5*12=60inches, 60+8=68 inchesNow, the conversion of inches to cm is:1 inches = 2.54 cmSo just math again …

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.

How tall is 1.73 mtrs in feet and inches? - Answers 28 Oct 2024 · How many centimeters in 14 feet five inches? There are 12 inches to each foot, so 14 ft. 5 in. is (14 x 12) + 5 or 173 in.

5 feet 8 inches equals how many centimeters? - Answers I'm sure it would've been quicker to just Google it but still. 5 feet 8 inches = 68 inches= 172.72 centimeters which we can round to about 173 centimeters. Hope that helped Algebraic Steps ...

What is 5 ft 8 inches in meters? - Answers 28 Apr 2022 · 5 foot, 8 inches in metres is about 1.72 metres.

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 centimeters 5 ft 8 in = 68 in x 2.54 = 172.72 cm