Dimensional anaylsis problem involving trigonometry

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a dimensional analysis problem involving the equation x = A sin(2∏ft), where A and f are constants. It is established that for the sine function to be dimensionless, the dimensions of A must equal the dimensions of displacement, specifically meters (m). The analysis confirms that the frequency f must be expressed in terms of s-1 to ensure dimensional consistency. The final conclusion is that A = m, validating the solution provided by the user.

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  • Familiarity with SI units, particularly meters and seconds
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Homework Statement



Dimensional Analysis:

A displacement is related to time as:

x = A sin (2∏ft), where A and f are constants.

Find the dimensions of A. (Hint: a trigonometric function appearing in an equation must be dimensionless.)

Homework Equations



t = seconds
The domain of a sine must be an angle.

The Attempt at a Solution



x = A sin (2∏ft), where A and f are constants.

m = A sin (2∏fs)

A = m/[sin (2∏fs)]

Therefore, f, a constant, must be in terms of s-1, in order to cancel out the s next to it, as the input of sine in an equation must be dimensionless.

Therefore, A = m

Thanks for any help!
 
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Yes that would be correct.
 
Correct
 
I am absolutely stunned that I got the question correct (other than failing to use base dimensions instead of units in the SI system, as Emilyjoint posted in my other thread here!).

Thank you!
 

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