Determine the units of the quantity described

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the units of various physical quantities through dimensional analysis. Participants analyze combinations of units such as kg(m/s)(1/s) and (kg/s)(m/s²). The key takeaway is that these combinations can be simplified to derive standard units, with examples like 1 N (Newton) being equivalent to 1 kg·m/s². The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding SI derived units and encourages using resources like Wikipedia for further clarification.

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  • Understanding of dimensional analysis
  • Familiarity with SI base and derived units
  • Basic algebra skills for unit simplification
  • Knowledge of physical quantities and their units
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  • Learn how to perform dimensional analysis with complex unit combinations
  • Explore the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration using Newton's second law
  • Review examples of common physical quantities and their corresponding units
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Students in physics or engineering, educators teaching dimensional analysis, and anyone seeking to understand the relationships between different physical units.

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Homework Statement


Determine the units of the quantity described by each of the following combinations of units:
a. kg (m/s) (1/s)
b. (kg/s) (m/s²)
c. (kg/s) (m/s)²
d. (kg/s) (m/s)


Homework Equations


n/a


The Attempt at a Solution


I would attempt to solve the problem, but I don't even know what's being asked of me. I think I have reading comprehension problems :rolleyes: I'm not asking you to do my hw, but I'd appreciate it if you a) dumbed down the question for me b) told me how to solve it. I'm assuming you probably don't get basic questions like this often... sorry. Thanks!
 
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This is called dimensional analysis.
For example, A Newton, the unit of force, is defined as the net force required to accelerate a 1kg mass with an acceleration of 1m/s2. So N = kg*m/s2
With some algebra, you should be able to simplify the dimensions and end up with other units that are defined in terms of those units.
 


Several of those combinations of standard units have special names. Try figuring out what kind of quantity each is, then you might be able to come up with the name. (At least I think that's what they want.)
 
knotloved said:

Homework Statement


Determine the units of the quantity described by each of the following combinations of units:
a. kg (m/s) (1/s)

For part (a),
1\frac{kg\cdot m}{s^{2}}=1N (Newton)

The SI system has 7 base units and the rest are derived. The question is giving you a combination of bas units (kg, m, s) and asking you to give the derived units based on those. Check out this wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SI_derived_unit

I think with that you can figure out the rest!
 

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