How to find the dimensions of a particle moving in one dimension?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining the dimensions of the constants alpha, beta, and gamma in the equation x(t) = (alpha)t^2 + (beta)t + (gamma), which describes a particle's motion in one dimension. It is noted that the units of beta multiplied by time (t) must match the units of position (x), leading to a dimensional analysis approach. By equating the dimensions, participants can derive the specific units for each constant. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding how these constants relate to the physical quantities involved in motion. This analysis is crucial for solving problems related to particle dynamics in physics.
kratos
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So a particle of mass M is moving in one dimension given by:
x(t) = (alpha)t^2 + (beta)t + (gamma)

where alpha, beta, gamma are non zero constants.

What are the dimensions of the alpha, beta, gamma?

Either the answer is staring right at my face or my physics is rusty :/
 
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This looks like one of the equations of motion for a particle moving in the x direction.

x(t) = ut + \frac{at^2}{2}
 
kratos said:
So a particle of mass M is moving in one dimension given by:
x(t) = (alpha)t^2 + (beta)t + (gamma)

where alpha, beta, gamma are non zero constants.

What are the dimensions of the alpha, beta, gamma?

Either the answer is staring right at my face or my physics is rusty :/
Welcome to Physics Forums.

Okay, let's look at the beta term as an example:

The units of beta·t must agree with the units of x. So we can write
beta·t ~ x​
Where "~" means they have the same units, not that they are equal. But, we can solve this as if it were an equation. So, solving for beta, what do you get?
 
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