Help w/ simple dimensional analysis

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving for the gravitational constant G in the equation F = G * (m_1 * m_2) / r^2. Participants clarify that the necessary units for force, mass, and distance are provided in SI units: force in kg*m/s^2, mass in kg, and distance in meters. The main challenge is understanding how to apply these units to derive the dimensions of G. The solution involves substituting the known units into the equation to isolate and solve for G. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of dimensional analysis in physics problems.
CocoonOHorror
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Homework Statement



where F is the magnitude of the gravitational attraction on either body, m_1 and m_2 are the masses of the bodies, r is the distance between them, and G is the gravitational constant. In SI units, the units or force are kg* m/s^2, the units of mass are kg, and the units of distance are m. For this equation to have consistent units, the units of G must be which of the following?

Homework Equations



F=GM_1M_2/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


i have no idea where to begin. it seems to me they should give me the dimensions of mass and force, but they dont.
 
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Plug in the units and solve for the gravitational constant.
 
CocoonOHorror said:
...it seems to me they should give me the dimensions of mass and force, but they dont.

Actually they do give that information:
CocoonOHorror said:
In SI units, the units or force are kg*m/s^2, the units of mass are kg,...
 
Redbelly98 said:
Actually they do give that information:

those are the dimensions?
 
man, i reall don't understand the question then
 
physicsface said:
Plug in the units and solve for the gravitational constant.

Exactly. Plug in the units for F, M1, M2, and r in the equation,

CocoonOHorror said:
F=G M_1 M_2 / r^2
 

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