Determine the units of the quantity described

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the units of various combinations of physical quantities, specifically focusing on dimensional analysis and derived units in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the concept of dimensional analysis and its application to the given unit combinations. Some express confusion about the problem's requirements, while others suggest identifying the type of quantities represented by the units to aid understanding.

Discussion Status

There is a mix of attempts to clarify the problem and provide guidance on dimensional analysis. Some participants have offered insights into the relationships between units, while others are still seeking a clearer understanding of the question posed.

Contextual Notes

One participant mentions a potential reading comprehension issue regarding the problem statement, indicating that the clarity of the question may be a barrier to progress. Additionally, there is a reference to the SI system and its base and derived units, which may influence the discussion.

knotloved
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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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