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Ch. 1 - Equations and Inequalities
Lial - College Algebra 13th Edition
Lial13th EditionCollege AlgebraISBN: 9780136881063Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 2, Problem 61

In the metric system of weights and measures, temperature is measured in degrees Celsius (°C) instead of degrees Fahrenheit (°F). To convert between the two systems, we use the equations. C =5/9 (F-32) and F = 9/5C+32. In each exercise, convert to the other system. Round answers to the nearest tenth of a degree if necessary. 20°C

Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the given temperature and the system it is in. Here, the temperature is 20°C, which is in degrees Celsius.
Since the temperature is given in Celsius and we need to convert it to Fahrenheit, use the conversion formula from Celsius to Fahrenheit: \(F = \frac{9}{5}C + 32\).
Substitute the given Celsius temperature into the formula: \(F = \frac{9}{5} \times 20 + 32\).
Perform the multiplication and addition operations step-by-step to find the Fahrenheit temperature (do not calculate the final value here).
Round the final answer to the nearest tenth of a degree if necessary, as instructed.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Linear Equations and Formulas

The temperature conversion formulas between Celsius and Fahrenheit are linear equations. Understanding how to manipulate and apply these formulas allows you to convert temperatures accurately by substituting values and solving for the unknown variable.
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Order of Operations

When using the conversion formulas, it is important to follow the correct order of operations (parentheses, multiplication/division, addition/subtraction) to ensure accurate calculations. For example, subtracting 32 before multiplying by 5/9 is essential in the Celsius conversion.
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Rounding and Significant Figures

After performing the conversion, rounding the result to the nearest tenth is necessary for precision and clarity. Understanding how to round decimal numbers correctly ensures the final answer meets the problem’s requirements.
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