Dimensional Analysis And Its Applications
Chapter Name : Units And Measurements |
Sub Topic Code : 101_11_02_10_01 |
Topic Name : Dimensional Analysis And Its Applications |
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Sub Topic Name : Dimensional Analysis And Its Applications |
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Introduction
Some physical
relationships are too complex. It is too
difficult to verify a formula for such relationships. Dimensional analysis is then used to derive
and verify such formulas using dimensions of different physical quantities.
Pre-Requisites:
Idea about dimensions of physical quantities.
Activity:
Dimensional analysis
is then used to derive and verify such formulas using dimensions of different
physical quantities
Real Life Question:
Is it OK to equate 5 seconds = 3 seconds + 2
meters?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | They are the powers to which the base quantities are raised to represent that quantity. |
| Dimensional analysis | It is method of checking relations between physical quantities by identifying their dimensions. |
| Principal of homogeneity | Both side of equation must have same dimensions. |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| Dimensional Analysis chart | To know about Dimensional Analysis |
Real life uses :
·
It is used to
relate different physical quantities.
It is used to derive and verify mathematical
equations.
Places to visit :
Physics lab.
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| Unit conversion | 1km = 1000m. So, we can find 50m in terms of km using dimensional analysis. |
What you learn in Theory:
Only physical
quantities with the same dimensions can be added or subtracted.
What you learn in Practice:
Any complex formula
can be verified using dimensional analysis.