Understanding Dimensional Analysis: Solving for i, j, and k Values

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the values of "i", "j", and "k" in dimensional analysis, specifically when equating powers of fundamental quantities. The key takeaway is that the fundamental quantities of length and mass must have exponents of zero to isolate time with an exponent of one. This leads to the formulation of three equations with three unknowns, which is essential for solving dimensional analysis problems effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of dimensional analysis concepts
  • Familiarity with fundamental quantities: length, mass, and time
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
  • Knowledge of exponents and their properties
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of dimensional homogeneity in physics
  • Learn how to set up and solve systems of equations in algebra
  • Explore examples of dimensional analysis in fluid dynamics
  • Investigate the application of dimensional analysis in engineering problems
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, engineering, and mathematics who are looking to deepen their understanding of dimensional analysis and its applications in solving complex problems.

dexstarr
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
I'm having trouble understanding a step. How are the values of " i , j , and k " derived? When equating the powers what step has to be done? I have been stumped on this for a while and I think I'm just over thinking it.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/agc0ga9hsjd04jn/Sample%20Problem.png
 

Attachments

  • Sample Problem.png
    Sample Problem.png
    19.7 KB · Views: 104
Mathematics news on Phys.org
What they have done is to use the fact that the fundamental quantities of length and mass must have exponents of zero, since we wish only to have a unit of time left, with an exponent of 1. So this gives us 3 equations in 3 unknowns.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
979
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 40 ·
2
Replies
40
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K