How do you get Newtons Squared?

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Multiplying force by force results in Newtons squared (N^2), but the meaning of this unit is context-dependent. Without specific applications, the significance of Newtons squared remains unclear. For example, in physics, specific energy is expressed in m^2/sec^2, which becomes meaningful when multiplied by mass to yield energy in Joules. The discussion highlights that units like Newtons squared can be useful for comparisons but lack intrinsic meaning without context. Understanding the application is crucial for interpreting such units effectively.
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If you multiply a force by a force, do you get a force squared?

What is a square force?

An engineering statics textbook I'm reviewing says N x N = N^2.
 
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TomBrooklyn said:
What is a square force?

.

The interpretation of units of measure depends upon the interpretation of the equations or expressions where they occur. Without some context for its use, a unit like Newtons^2 doesn't have a particular interpretation. Do you have a particular application where Newtons^2 occurs in an equation?
 
It looks pretty obvious to me. A square Newton will accelerate a square kilogram at 1 square meter per hypercubic second.:biggrin:

With no context, it's hard to make a statement on the significance of the units.

One example I'm familiar with: Specific energy (per unit of mass) is measured in m^2/sec^2. The units don't mean a whole lot until you multiply your specific energy by your mass to get your energy in Joules. But, specific energy can still be pretty handy value to compare (or generalize) some things.
 
What mathematics software should engineering students use? Is it correct that much of the engineering industry relies on MATLAB, making it the tool many graduates will encounter in professional settings? How does SageMath compare? It is a free package that supports both numerical and symbolic computation and can be installed on various platforms. Could it become more widely used because it is freely available? I am an academic who has taught engineering mathematics, and taught the...

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