MHB Solving Math Problem: Average Distance from Earth to Proxima Centauri

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To find the distance from Earth to Proxima Centauri, multiply the distance in light years (4.22) by the number of kilometers in a light year (9.461 billion kilometers). This calculation results in approximately 39.9 trillion kilometers. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the conversion between light years and kilometers to solve similar problems. Eddy seeks guidance not just for this specific problem but for future mathematical challenges as well. Overall, the focus is on learning the methodology behind solving distance-related problems in astronomy.
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Hi, my name is Eddy and this is my first post on the forum. I like math but do not know a lot of it. I am hoping to find some help and guidance her on how to solve things i don't find an answer to online.

This is the problem at hand

The average distance from Earth to Moon is about 384,403 kms. The sun is the closest star to Earth and is about 150 million kilometers away. the next closest star is Proxima Centauri which is about 4.22 light years away from Earth. A light year is defined as 9,461billion kilometers. Find and label the distance in kilometers from Earth to Proxima.

I would appreciate if the person who decides to help me would explain how to go about doing a problem like this. Much more than an answer i need to learn what to do when face with this types of problems.
thank you so much. i can't tell you how much i appreciate any help. I can't do or show any effort on my part other than take out the data given because I am really lost at sea here,
Thanks,
Eddy
 
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dobalganero said:
The average distance from Earth to Moon is about 384,403 kms.

The sun is the closest star to Earth and is about 150 million kilometers away.

The next closest star is Proxima Centauri which is about 4.22 light years away from Earth. [1]

A light year is defined as 9,461billion kilometers. [2]

Find and label the distance in kilometers from Earth to Proxima.
Do you "see" that you only need :
[1] Proxima Centauri is 4.22 light years away from Earth.
[2] A light year is equal to 9,461 billion kilometers.

Earth to Proxima = ? kilometers
 

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