Why is the squared meters negative?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the notation of units in energy auditing, specifically the use of Watts per negative square meter (W·m-2). Participants explore the meaning of this notation and its implications for understanding standards in lighting and energy measurement.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the meaning of W·m-2 and why it is not simply expressed as W·m2.
  • Another participant explains that a negative exponent indicates a reciprocal relationship, suggesting that W·m-2 is equivalent to W/m2.
  • A third participant reiterates the equivalence of W·m-2 to W/m2 and expresses confusion about the standard notation.
  • One participant expresses realization about the notation after the explanation, indicating a shift in understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the interpretation of the negative exponent as indicating a reciprocal relationship, but there is some confusion regarding the standard notation and its usage.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve why the standards are consistently written with a negative exponent, leaving the reasoning behind this notation unclear.

R_Ham
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Hello,
I work in energy auditing. I noticed a lot of the standards I am given for lighting, etc are in Watts per negative square meter: W·m-2.

Does anyone know what this means? Why isn't it just in W·m2 ?
 
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##a^{-n}## means the same as ##1/a^n##

Anything raised to negative power is the same as a fraction with the thing being in the denominator.

So what does ##Wm^{-2}## mean?
 
R_Ham said:
Hello,
I work in energy auditing. I noticed a lot of the standards I am given for lighting, etc are in Watts per negative square meter: W·m-2.

Does anyone know what this means? Why isn't it just in W·m2 ?
The dot between the w and the m is times, not divided by. I'm not sure why you would write it that way, but W·m-2 = W/m2
 
Yes, this all makes sense now. Can't believe I didn't realize that one -_- . I don't know why, but the standards are just always written like that W·m-2.
 

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