How many kilograms are in 1,800 grams?
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A
0.18
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B
1.8
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C
18
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D
180
There are 1.8 kilograms in 1,800 grams.
The metric system is based on decimal relationships between units. The prefix "kilo-" denotes a factor of one thousand (1000). Converting from a smaller unit (grams) to a larger unit (kilograms) requires division by the conversion factor of 1000.
A) 0.18
This result would be obtained by incorrectly dividing 1,800 by 10,000 or moving the decimal point four places to the left. The correct conversion factor from grams to kilograms is 1/1000 or 0.001. 1,800 grams multiplied by 0.001 equals 1.8, not 0.18.
B) 1.8
Since 1 kilogram = 1,000 grams, to find the number of kilograms in 1,800 grams, one divides 1,800 by 1,000. 1,800 ÷ 1,000 = 1.8. This moves the decimal point three places to the left: 1,800.0 grams becomes 1.800 kilograms, which is 1.8 kg.
C) 18
This answer would result from dividing by 100 instead of 1,000. It represents a confusion with the centi- prefix (centimeter to meter, for example) or moving the decimal point only two places. 1,800 grams divided by 100 equals 18, but that would yield 18 hectograms, not kilograms.
D) 180
This would be the result if one divided by 10. It misapplies the conversion factor, treating it as if there were only 10 grams in a kilogram. 1,800 grams divided by 10 equals 180, which would be 180 decagrams, not kilograms.
Conclusion:
Converting within the metric system involves multiplying or dividing by powers of ten. The prefix "kilo-" means 1000 times the base unit. Therefore, to convert grams to kilograms, the number of grams is divided by 1000. Performing this operation on 1,800 grams correctly yields 1.8 kilograms.

Topic Flashcards
Click to FlipWhat is the conversion factor for changing grams to kilograms?
1 kilogram = 1000 grams. Therefore, to convert grams to kilograms, you divide by 1000.
When converting a larger number of small units (like grams) to a smaller number of larger units (like kilograms), do you multiply or divide?
You are combining smaller units into fewer, larger units. (e.g., 1800 small units ÷ 1000 = 1.8 large units).
Convert 1,800 grams to kilograms. What is the simple method using decimal places?
Move the decimal point 3 places to the left. 1,800.0 grams becomes 1.800 or 1.8 kilograms.
Which metric prefix means "one thousand" and is used for units like kilogram and kilometer?
The prefix "kilo-" means one thousand (1000x).
If a box has a mass of 3.6 kilograms, what is its mass in grams?
3600 grams. (Multiply by 1000: 3.6 kg * 1000 = 3600 g).