Is Dirac delta function dimensionless?

AI Thread Summary
The Dirac delta function is often used as an auxiliary construct in physics, particularly to represent sudden impulses, where it interacts with other dimensional quantities like force and time. While it can signify an infinitesimally small time interval, allowing for calculations of momentum changes, its dimensionality can vary depending on context. In some instances, the delta function may not carry any physical dimension and can represent small changes in dimensionless ratios. Therefore, the Dirac delta function does not always have to have a physical dimension. Understanding its application is crucial for accurate interpretations in physics.
fuzzyphysics
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Probably a trivial question, but does Dirac delta function has (to have always) a physical dimension or is it used just as a auxiliary construct to express e.g. sudden force impulse, i.e. Force = Impulse \times \delta, where 'Impulse' carries the dimension?
Any comments would be highly appreciated.
FP
 
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When people use the word 'Dirac delta function', they usually mean the function which acts like this:
\int_{- \infty}^\infty f(t) \delta(t-T)dt=f(T)
Which is something different to what you're talking about. If I'm right, you're talking about Impulse=force times (small time interval), i.e.
I=F \ \delta t
In this case, the delta just signifies that the time interval is very small, and if we take it to be infinitesimally small, we get:
dI=Fdt
Which allows us to calculate the change in momentum when a non-constant force is applied.

So in this case, the delta carries the dimension of time. But I guess the use of delta doesn't always have to have dimension. (For example, it could be used to express a small change in some dimensionless ratio of parameters).
 
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