Unit conversion in electronics: convert 1,600 kilohms (kΩ) into megohms (MΩ) and choose the correct value.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 1.6 MΩ

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Proper use of SI prefixes prevents large rounding errors in circuit analysis. Converting between kilohms and megohms is routine when reading resistor values, datasheets, or calculating equivalent resistances in networks.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Given: 1,600 kΩ.
  • 1 kΩ = 10^3 Ω.
  • 1 MΩ = 10^6 Ω = 1000 kΩ.
  • We need the result in MΩ.


Concept / Approach:

Since 1 MΩ equals 1000 kΩ, divide the kilohm value by 1000 to obtain megohms. Always confirm by converting both to ohms and comparing, which verifies dimensional consistency and reduces mistakes.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Compute using kΩ→MΩ: value_MΩ = 1,600 kΩ / 1000 = 1.6 MΩ.Cross-check in Ω: 1,600 kΩ = 1,600 × 10^3 Ω = 1.6 × 10^6 Ω.Now in MΩ: 1.6 × 10^6 Ω / 10^6 = 1.6 MΩ.


Verification / Alternative check:

Dimensional analysis confirms that dividing by 1000 (kilo to mega) is correct because mega is three orders of magnitude above kilo.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

1,600,000 MΩ implies multiplying by 1000 twice (nonsense). 160 MΩ is off by 100×. 0.160 MΩ is off by 10× in the other direction.


Common Pitfalls:

Inverting the conversion ratio (multiplying when you should divide); mixing up k, M, and m (milli) prefixes.


Final Answer:

1.6 MΩ

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