Solving J.E = W/V with Dimensional Analysis

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The discussion revolves around the equation J.E = W/V, where J is current density and E is the electric field. The user, Ari, struggles with dimensional analysis, finding an extra unit of seconds on the left side of the equation. Another participant clarifies that W represents power (J/s), not work, leading to the conclusion that J.E actually represents power per unit volume. Ari acknowledges the misunderstanding, attributing the confusion to a potential typo on a GRE flashcard. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly interpreting physical quantities in equations.
AriAstronomer
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Hey guys,
So I know I'm missing something really stupid, but I can't figure out what it is.
I'm seeing the claim that the current density dotted with the Electric field is equal to Work per volume, or: J.E = W/V. Using dimensional analysis though, I keep getting an extra unit of seconds on the left hand side of the denominator:
(Cm/m^3s)(N/C) = J/(m^3)
Nm/sm^3 = J/m^3
J/sm^3 = J/m^3

What am I doing wrong?
Thanks,
Ari
 
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I get the same answer as you using the fact that the electric field has dimensions of voltage / length. Then J*E becomes

[C/(sm2)] * V/m

= (C*J/C)*m-3s-1

= Jm-3s-1

Where exactly are you "seeing this claim?"
 
W isn't "work" ,it's work/t(its dimension is J/s),you mistakes at this
 
Yeah J dot E is power per unit volume. That's usually the starting point for deriving expressions for the poynting vector and the energy density in the field.
 
Ahh Power/Volume. Thanks. I had seen this claim on a flashcard, I'm preparing for GRE's and got a bunch of flash cards sent from a school to help me. Must be a typo on their part then.

Ari
 
For simple comparison, I think the same thought process can be followed as a block slides down a hill, - for block down hill, simple starting PE of mgh to final max KE 0.5mv^2 - comparing PE1 to max KE2 would result in finding the work friction did through the process. efficiency is just 100*KE2/PE1. If a mousetrap car travels along a flat surface, a starting PE of 0.5 k th^2 can be measured and maximum velocity of the car can also be measured. If energy efficiency is defined by...

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