Which customary unit of weight is appropriate?

Learning Objectives Identify the three main customary units of weight: ounce, pound, and ton. Select the most appropriate customary unit of weight for a given object based on its relative size and mass. Convert between customary units of weight using proportional reasoning and conversion factors. Model weight conversions using linear functions, such as f(p) = 16p for pounds to ounces. Apply unit analysis (dimensional analysis) to solve multi-step, real-world problems involving weight. Express very large or small weights in scientific notation after converting units. Evaluate the reasonableness of a measurement based on the chosen unit. Would you measure the weight of a whale in ounces or the weight of your phone in tons? 🤔 Choosing the right unit is key to making sense of...

TermDefinitionExample WeightA measure of the force of gravity on an object. In the U.S. customary system, it is commonly measured in ounces, pounds, and tons.A standard basketball has a weight of about 22 ounces. Ounce (oz)The smallest common customary unit of weight, used for measuring very light objects.A single slice of bread weighs approximately 1 ounce. Pound (lb)A standard unit of weight, equivalent to 16 ounces. It is used for measuring the weight of many everyday objects.A standard bag of sugar from the grocery store weighs 5 pounds. Ton (T)The largest common customary unit of weight, equivalent to 2,000 pounds. It is used for measuring extremely heavy objects.A mid-size car, like a Honda Civic, weighs approximately 1.5 tons. Conversion FactorA ratio or fraction which represents t...

Pounds to Ounces Conversion Function f(p) = 16p To convert a weight from pounds (p) to ounces, you multiply the number of pounds by 16. Here, f(p) represents the weight in ounces. Tons to Pounds Conversion Function g(t) = 2000t To convert a weight from tons (t) to pounds, you multiply the number of tons by 2000. Here, g(t) represents the weight in pounds. General Conversion Formula using Ratios \frac{\text{value in unit A}}{\text{conversion factor A}} = \frac{\text{value in unit B}}{\text{conversion factor B}} This proportional relationship can be used for any conversion. For example, to convert 80 ounces to pounds, you can set up the proportion: \frac{x \text{ lbs}}{1 \text{ lb}} = \frac{80 \text{ oz}}{16 \text{ oz}} and solve for x.