High School How to describe complicated dimensions?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the complexities of describing electrical dimensions, specifically the volt, which is defined as kg·m²/s³/A. Participants explore the relationship between various units, emphasizing that the ampere (A) was chosen over the coulomb (C) as a base unit due to the ease of measuring current. The conversation highlights the importance of regrouping dimensions into more intuitive concepts such as force, acceleration, and charge. Key definitions discussed include the ampere, coulomb, and newton, providing clarity on their roles in the SI unit system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of SI units, specifically ampere, coulomb, and volt.
  • Basic knowledge of physics concepts such as force, acceleration, and work.
  • Familiarity with dimensional analysis in physics.
  • Knowledge of electrical measurements and their significance in practical applications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the definition and applications of the ampere in electrical engineering.
  • Learn about the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance using Ohm's Law.
  • Explore dimensional analysis techniques for converting between different physical units.
  • Investigate the historical context of SI unit definitions and their evolution over time.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the foundational concepts of electrical measurements and SI units.

NODARman
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Hi, just wondering if the dimension of velocity is m/s that can be described as what distance is passed in a specific time, then how can I describe volt which is kg•m²÷s³÷A? Mass in the area that moved...
I can't even imagine.

Thanks.
 
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It makes more intuitive sense to me if you substitute ##A=\frac{C}{s}##, electric charge per second. Then you can have ##V=\frac{[kg⋅(\frac{m}{sec^2})]⋅m}{C}## which is like Work (=force⋅distance) per Coulomb.
 
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BTW, why did the SI gurus choose Amps instead of Coulombs as a basic unit? Charge seems to me to be as basic as it gets.
 
DaveE said:
BTW, why did the SI gurus choose Amps instead of Coulombs as a basic unit? Charge seems to me to be as basic as it gets.
I think it was because when SI units were first introduced it was much, much easier to accurately measure current compared to measuring charge.
 
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Anyway, I think the more general answer is to try to regroup all of those dimensions into things that are more intuitive, like force, acceleration, charge, etc.
 
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Why is there a kg?

What is the definition of an Ampere?
What is the definition of the Coulomb?
Whats' the definition of the Newton?

DaveE said:
BTW, why did the SI gurus choose Amps instead of Coulombs
Easier to realize the standard. Measuring current is a lot easier than measuring charge.
 
NODARman said:
... then how can I describe volt which is kg ·m² /s³ /A ?
There are many ways to factorise the dimensions of the volt.
Pick one that is simple and useful.
volt = joule / coulomb .
 
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DaveE said:
BTW, why did the SI gurus choose Amps instead of Coulombs as a basic unit?
The force between two wires, in a current balance, is proportional to the product of the currents.
amp = coulomb / second
 

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