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Showing the Terminal Velocity equation is dimensionally correct. |
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| Mar2-12, 03:19 AM | #1 |
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Showing the Terminal Velocity equation is dimensionally correct.
Hey guys, this is my er...first post.
It's a first year university physics assignment that I'm having a bit of trouble with, any help will be rewarded with kind words!(bit of an empty gift, but it's all I have) Ok, here's the problem. The terminal velocity of a mass m, moving at ‘high speeds’ through a fluid of density ρ (kg m^3), is given by V(terminal)=√((2mg)/(DρA)) where A is the cross-sectional area of the object (m2) and D is a dimensionless “drag coefficient”. Show that equation is dimensionally correct. Now, not really being certain what the question is asking for regards 'dimensions' hasn't helped but! I did make an attempt by substituting each variable with it's corresponding units. e.g. 2mg= 2((m/s^2)x(kg))=((m x kg)/ s^2)and ρA=((Kg/m^3)x(m^2))=Kg x m^(-1) which yields V(ter)=√((mKg)/ s^2)/mKg =√(s^2) x D =s x D This seems more or less nonsensical. I'm sure it's probably mathematical error or just a failure to grasp the concept of proving an equations dimensions. Am I wrong? what is going on? |
| Mar2-12, 03:55 AM | #2 |
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| dimensions, physics 101, proof, terminal velocity |
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