What does 'Explain Quantitatively' Mean?

  • Thread starter Thread starter superg33k
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Explain
AI Thread Summary
"Explain quantitatively" requires providing an explanation that includes measurable data and numerical values to support the argument. The term "quantitative" emphasizes the importance of using specific measurements rather than just outlining concepts. This approach contrasts with qualitative explanations, which focus more on descriptive aspects. The discussion highlights a common misunderstanding of the term, clarifying that it involves detailed numerical analysis. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurately addressing the homework question.
superg33k
Messages
95
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



I have a question that states "Explain quantitatively why BLAH is true". What does "Explain quantitatively" mean?

Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution



I think it means give an outline of the argument, however the word quantity makes me think it might mean the opposite; work out the exact numbers for the argument.

Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Well, think about it. Quantitative sounds like quantity/quantify. Long idea short, it means to explain your answer with the use of measurements and quantifiable data.
 
Thanks for the quick reply. I asked because thinking about it gave me a different answer to the one I have always thought it was. Thanks.
 

Thread 'Errors and significant figures'

I multiplied the values first without the error limit. Got 19.38. rounded it off to 2 significant figures since the given data has 2 significant figures. So = 19. For error I used the above formula. It comes out about 1.48. Now my question is. Should I write the answer as 19±1.5 (rounding 1.48 to 2 significant figures) OR should I write it as 19±1. So in short, should the error have same number of significant figures as the mean value or should it have the same number of decimal places as...
View full post »
Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'

Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'

Let's declare that for the cylinder, mass = M = 10 kg Radius = R = 4 m For the wall and the floor, Friction coeff = ##\mu## = 0.5 For the hanging mass, mass = m = 11 kg First, we divide the force according to their respective plane (x and y thing, correct me if I'm wrong) and according to which, cylinder or the hanging mass, they're working on. Force on the hanging mass $$mg - T = ma$$ Force(Cylinder) on y $$N_f + f_w - Mg = 0$$ Force(Cylinder) on x $$T + f_f - N_w = Ma$$ There's also...
View full post »

Similar threads

Input & Output Explained: What Does It Mean & Why Is It Relevant?
Replies
21
Views
2K
What does 'dv and dx' mean in f = eta X A (dv/dx)?
Replies
6
Views
11K
Quantitative Analysis of Electron Motion in a Uniform Magnetic Field
Replies
20
Views
2K
Plank with block of mass on top executing vertical SHM
2
Replies
78
Views
7K
Why are orbits of Comets unstable?
Replies
1
Views
2K
Use Max Planck's quantum theory to explain the following...
Replies
4
Views
4K
Does the label "centripetal force" ever appear in a FBD
Replies
15
Views
4K
When is Pascal's Principle applicable?
Replies
5
Views
3K
I Amount of electrons in nuclei
Replies
10
Views
2K
What Does the Symbol [=] Mean in Dimensional Analysis?
Replies
2
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top