Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around converting values from CGS (centimeter-gram-second) units to SI (International System of Units) for flux and energy values, specifically focusing on the conversion of millijanskys (mJy) and a flux value expressed in cm²·g⁻¹.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant presents a value of 10.7 mJy and proposes a conversion to SI units, suggesting it might be 1.7*10^(-2)*10^(-26), but expresses uncertainty about this calculation.
- The same participant also discusses converting a flux value of kappa from cm²·g⁻¹ to m²/kg, initially suggesting it might be 2*10^(-7) m²/kg, while indicating uncertainty in the conversion process.
- Another participant challenges the grams conversion, stating that the negative exponent is incorrect and suggests that division by 10^(-3) should be used instead of multiplication.
- A different participant provides a breakdown of the conversion for 10.7 mJy, clarifying that it equals 1.07 × 10^(-2) and emphasizes the importance of maintaining precision in the conversion process.
- This participant also includes a reference to the definition of the Jansky (Jy) and its relation to SI units, specifically noting that 1 Jy = 10^(-26) W/(m²·Hz).
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the correct approach to the conversions, particularly regarding the treatment of negative exponents in the conversion from grams to kilograms. The discussion remains unresolved as participants have not reached a consensus on the correct conversion factors.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made in the conversion processes, particularly the treatment of units and the handling of negative exponents. Some mathematical steps are not fully resolved, leaving ambiguity in the proposed conversions.