Use the fact that 1 mile equals about 1.61 kilometers.
27.37
Practice makes perfect
We want to express 17 miles in kilometers.
17 mi≈ km
We can do this by using the fact that 1 mile equals about 1.61 kilometers. Let's write this relationship as a unit ratio.
1.61 km/1mi
To perform the conversion, we need to multiply 17 miles by the unit ratio or its reciprocal. Remember, we want to get the distance in kilometers, and every unit we do not want has to be divided out.
We found that 17 miles is equal to about 27.37 kilometers. We can now complete the given statement.
17 mi≈ 27.37 km
Extra
Common Conversion Factors
The following tool can be used to help you explore some of the most commonly used conversion factors. Conversions can be made both within or between the Metric System and the Imperial System — which is also known as the U.S. Customary System.
Around the world, people use conversion factors on a regular basis. You can read more about some practical applications of conversion factors in our original content.
