General_Sax
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Homework Statement
Use the method of dimensional analysis to show that the functional dependence in equation (1) can be derived from an observational expression: [tex]lambda = k*mu*f^m*T^n[/tex].
Homework Equations
[tex]lambda=k\sqrt {{\frac {T}{\mu}}}{f}^{-1}[/tex] (1)
[tex]lambda = k*mu*f^m*T^n[/tex]
[tex]\mu={\frac {{\it kg}}{m}}[/tex]
[tex]T={\frac {{\it kg}\,m}{{s}^{2}}}[/tex]
The Attempt at a Solution
First I solve for n.
[tex]m={\frac {{m}^{n}}{m}}[/tex]
n = 2
Now I solve for m.
[tex]0=0={1/s}^{m}{s}^{-2\,n}[/tex]
m = -4
so now I have:
[tex]\lambda={\frac {ku{T}^{2}}{{f}^{-4}}}[/tex]
I don't understand what the question means by "show that the functional dependence in equation (1). . ."
In equation (1) we were told that [tex]\lambda[/tex] and T were variables. Well in equation I've derived [tex]\lambda[/tex] and T could very well be variables, but I don't think I understand the question. But, if the question is asking me to equate the two expressions and prove an "identity", then I can't do that. Any help welcomed and appreciated.
When I try to "work" the units out they don't work out at all.