Chapter 8: Measurement Numbers in the Real World

A Whale of an Animal

If you ever get to SeaWorld, you have got to watch the Killer Whale show.  There is something about such a large, dangerous looking animal, and yet so beautiful.  And so close to you.  You definitely will not fall asleep.

Here is some information regarding the killer whales, which by the way, are actually members of the dolphin family.

• Length: 8-9 m
• Weight: 5100-9100 kg
• Dorsal fins:  The male dorsal fin is very large,sometimes as tall as two m.

What is the length in centimeters? 
What is the length in feet? 

What is the weight in metric tons?   In pounds?    In tons? 
 
Here is some information on the 97 Lincoln Continental.

• Length:    206.3 in
• Width:     73.6 in
• Height:    56 in
• Weight:   3900 lb

How many Lincoln Continentals could you place end-to-end lengthwise to match the killer whale's length? 
How many end-to-end widthwise could you place to match the whale's length? 
Is the dorsal fin of a male whale smaller or larger than the Continental?    By how much? 
How many Continentals would it take to match the killer whale's weight?