Explanation of this popular t-shirt equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the interpretation of the equation displayed on a popular MIT-themed t-shirt: F/C²(sqrt(-1))PV/nR. Participants clarify that the equation likely represents a misrepresentation of the more accurate form, E/c² * sqrt(-1) * PV/nR, which relates to physics and thermodynamics. The conversation highlights the importance of parentheses for clarity and notes that the t-shirt's creators may not be affiliated with MIT, as indicated by the absence of an equal sign in the equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly energy and thermodynamics.
  • Familiarity with the ideal gas law represented by PV=nRT.
  • Knowledge of complex numbers, specifically the concept of sqrt(-1).
  • Awareness of the significance of notation in mathematical expressions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between energy and mass as described by Einstein's equation E=mc².
  • Explore the ideal gas law and its applications in thermodynamics.
  • Learn about complex numbers and their applications in physics.
  • Investigate the history and significance of the MIT Equation T-Shirt and its design choices.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators in thermodynamics, and enthusiasts of mathematical notation who are interested in the cultural significance of equations in popular apparel.

Niaboc67
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Happened to pass someone wearing a t-shirt today with the logo:

F/C^2(sqrt(-1))PV/nR

Could you explain to me what this means?

Thank you
 
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Are you SURE the first letter isn't 'E'.
 
Niaboc67 said:
Happened to pass someone wearing a t-shirt today with the logo:

F/C^2(sqrt(-1))PV/nR

Could you explain to me what this means?

Thank you

insightful said:
Are you SURE the first letter isn't 'E'.
That would be my guess as well.
Did it look like this?
$$\frac{E}{c^2} \sqrt{-1} \frac{PV}{nR}$$

If @insightful and I are on the right track, adding some parentheses might be helpful.
$$\left(E/c^2\right) \left( \sqrt{-1}\right) \left( \frac{PV}{nR}\right)$$

Hint: the sweatshirt identifies an institute of higher learning.
 
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PeterDonis said:
The MIT Equation T-Shirt:

https://museumstore.mit.edu/product/mit-equation-t-shirt/

No parentheses, though. :wink:
Apparently the makers of the t-shirt didn't actually go to MIT. If they had, they wouldn't call it the "MIT Equation T-shirt".

A dead giveaway for an equation is the presence of "=" somewhere amongst the symbols.
 
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Mark44 said:
Apparently the makers of the t-shirt didn't actually go to MIT.

Yes, MIT does go to outside sources for some of these things. :wink:
 
Haha oh me...ok thanks guys!
 

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