Q.A calorie is a unit of heat (energy in transit) and it equals about 4.2 J where 1J=1 kg m2s−2. Suppose we employ a system of units in which the unit of mass equals α kg, the unit of length equals β m, the unit of time is γ s. Show that a calorie has a magnitude 4.2 α−1β−2γ2 in terms of the new units.
Concept understanding — Unit Conversion
Unit Conversion: Why 1 Metre and 100 Centimetres Are the Same Thing
Imagine you're measuring the length of your desk. You pull out a ruler marked in centimetres and find it's 120 cm long. Your friend, using a metre stick, says it's 1.2 m. You're both right — you've just used different units to describe the same physical length.
That's the core idea: unit conversion is the process of changing how you express a quantity without changing the quantity itself.
The Intuition: Same Quantity, Different Labels
Think of a pizza. Whether you call it "one pizza" or "8 slices," the amount of pizza hasn't changed. You've just used a different unit (pizza vs. slice) to describe it.
Similarly, 1 metre and 100 centimetres are the same length — just like 1 pizza and 8 slices are the same amount. The number changes (1 becomes 100, or 1 becomes 8), but the actual thing being measured stays identical.
This is the most important idea to hold onto: conversion changes the number, not the quantity. If you ever feel like the quantity has changed, you've made a mistake.
The Precise Statement
Unit conversion is the multiplication of a quantity by a conversion factor — a fraction equal to 1 — that cancels the old unit and introduces the new one.
A conversion factor looks like this:
old unitnew unit=1
For length: 100 cm1 m=1 and 1 m100 cm=1.
Why are these fractions equal to 1? Because 1 metre is 100 centimetres. The numerator and denominator describe the same physical length, so their ratio is exactly 1.
How to Convert: The Only Rule You Need
Multiply by a conversion factor that cancels the unit you have and leaves the unit you want.
Let's convert 120 cm to metres:
- Start with what you have: 120 cm
- Choose the conversion factor that has "cm" in the denominator (to cancel it) and "m" in the numerator: 100 cm1 m
- Multiply:
120 cm×100 cm1 m=100120 m=1.2 m
The "cm" units cancel just like numbers do: cmcm=1.
Always write the units explicitly. If the units don't cancel correctly, you've used the wrong conversion factor. This catches 90% of conversion mistakes.
The Reverse: Metres to Centimetres
Now convert 1.2 m to cm. This time, you want "cm" to remain and "m" to cancel. Use 1 m100 cm:
1.2 m×1 m100 cm=1.2×100 cm=120 cm
Notice: when going from a larger unit (m) to a smaller unit (cm), the number gets larger (1.2 → 120). When going from smaller to larger, the number gets smaller (120 → 1.2). This is a useful sanity check.
Common Conversion Factors You'll Use
| Quantity | Relationship | Conversion Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 1 m = 100 cm | 100 cm1 m, 1 m100 cm |
| Mass | 1 kg = 1000 g | 1000 g1 kg, 1 kg1000 g |
| Time | 1 h = 60 min | 60 min1 h, 1 h60 min |
| Speed | 1 km/h = 36001000 m/s | 1 km1000 m×3600 s1 h |
What About Multiple Steps?
Sometimes you need more than one conversion. Convert 2 hours to seconds:
2 h×1 h60 min×1 min60 s=2×60×60 s=7200 s
Each step cancels one unit and introduces the next. This is called chain conversion — it's just multiplying by a series of 1's.
A common mistake: forgetting to square or cube conversion factors when dealing with area or volume.
1 m² = (100 cm)² = 10,000 cm², not 100 cm².
1 m³ = (100 cm)³ = 1,000,000 cm³, not 100 cm³.
Always apply the exponent to the conversion factor itself.
The Big Picture
Unit conversion is not a trick — it's a logical tool. Every conversion factor is just a statement of equality written as a fraction. As long as you multiply by 1 (in the form of that fraction), the quantity stays the same. The only thing that changes is the label.
Final takeaway: A quantity is a number times a unit. To change the unit without changing the quantity, multiply by a conversion factor that equals 1. That's all there is to it.
"Unit conversion formula physics class 11" and "dimensional analysis and unit conversion" are frequently searched terms for this topic, which is introduced early in the Units and Measurements chapter of the NCERT/CBSE Class 11 Physics syllabus. Chain conversions in particular are a recurring numerical-question type in JEE Main and various state CETs.
Why this formula?
Dimensional Analysis: Why the Key Principles Hold
Dimensional Analysis is a powerful tool in physics and engineering that lets us check the consistency of equations, derive relationships, and convert units. But why does it work? Let's build the reasoning from the ground up.
1. The Core Idea: Physical Quantities Have Dimensions
Every physical quantity (like length, time, mass) can be expressed in terms of fundamental dimensions. The most common set in mechanics is:
- L = Length
- M = Mass
- T = Time
For example:
- Speed has dimensions [LT−1]
- Force has dimensions [MLT−2]
- Energy has dimensions [ML2T−2]
Why this matters: Two quantities can only be meaningfully compared or equated if they have the same dimensions. You cannot add apples to oranges — and you cannot add length to time.
2. The Principle of Dimensional Homogeneity
The key formula that underpins everything is:
Every valid physical equation must be dimensionally homogeneous.
This means: the dimensions on the left-hand side must equal the dimensions on the right-hand side.
Why must this hold?
Consider an equation like:
v=u+at
- Left side: [v]=LT−1
- Right side: [u]=LT−1, [at]=(LT−2)(T)=LT−1
Both sides have dimensions LT−1. If they didn't match, the equation would be physically meaningless — you'd be comparing quantities that cannot be equal in any real experiment.
Reasoning: Physical laws describe relationships between measurable quantities. If the dimensions don't match, the equation cannot represent a real physical relationship, because the numerical value would depend on the arbitrary choice of units.
3. The Buckingham Pi Theorem: Why We Can Derive Relationships
This is the deeper mathematical reason. The Buckingham Pi Theorem states:
If a physical problem involves n variables and k fundamental dimensions, then it can be reduced to n−k independent dimensionless groups (called π groups).
Why does this work?
Imagine you have a relationship:
f(Q1,Q2,…,Qn)=0
where each Qi has dimensions. Because the equation must be dimensionally homogeneous, we can rearrange it into a function of dimensionless products only:
F(π1,π2,…,πn−k)=0
The reasoning: Dimensions act as constraints. Each fundamental dimension (M, L, T) gives one constraint. So if you have n variables and k constraints, you only have n−k independent dimensionless combinations.
Example: For a simple pendulum, the period T depends on length L, mass m, and gravity g. That's 4 variables with 3 dimensions (M, L, T). So 4−3=1 dimensionless group: π=LT2g. This tells us T∝L/g without solving any differential equation.
4. Why We Can Convert Units Using Dimensional Analysis
The conversion factor formula:
Value in new unit=Value in old unit×(new unitold unit)dimension exponent
Why this works:
Suppose you have a quantity Q with dimensions [LaMbTc]. If you change the base units (say from meters to centimeters), the numerical value must change inversely to keep the physical quantity the same.
- If length unit shrinks by factor fL (1 m → 100 cm, so fL=100), then the numerical value of a length increases by fL.
- For a quantity with dimension La, the numerical value scales by fLa.
Reasoning: The physical quantity is invariant — only the number changes. The exponent a tells you how many times the length dimension appears, so the scaling factor is raised to that power.
5. The "Why" in One Sentence
Dimensional analysis works because physical laws are independent of the units we choose — the dimensions impose constraints that any valid equation must satisfy, reducing the number of independent variables.
Key Takeaways for Exams
| Principle | Why It Holds |
|---|---|
| Dimensional homogeneity | Physical equality requires same dimensions |
| Buckingham Pi Theorem | Dimensions act as constraints, reducing variables |
| Unit conversion | Physical quantity is invariant; numerical value scales inversely with unit size |
Remember: Dimensional analysis can check an equation's validity, but it cannot determine dimensionless constants (like 2π or 1/2). That's where experiment or deeper theory comes in.
Concept: Unit Conversion — When you change the base units, the numerical value of a physical quantity changes inversely with the size of each unit raised to its dimension.
Reasoning:
-
The dimension of energy (and heat) is [ML2T−2]. In SI, 1 calorie = 4.2 kg m2s−2.
-
In the new system, 1 new unit of mass = α kg, so 1 kg = α−1 new mass units.
Similarly, 1 m = β−1 new length units, and 1 s = γ−1 new time units.
-
Substitute into the SI expression:
4.2 kg m2s−2=4.2 (α−1) (β−1)2 (γ−1)−2 (new units)
=4.2 α−1β−2γ2 (new units)
The calorie equals 4.2 α−1β−2γ2 in the new system of units.
The key idea is dimensional conversion: a calorie has dimensions [ML2T−2], so when base units change by factors α,β,γ, the numerical value transforms by α−1β−2γ2, giving 4.2α−1β−2γ2 in the new system.
Why this works: the logic of unit conversion
Every physical quantity has dimensions — a combination of mass, length, and time. A calorie is a unit of energy, and energy has dimensions [ML2T−2]. When we change the base units, the numerical value of a fixed physical quantity changes inversely to the size of the units.
Think of it this way: if you measure a table's length in metres and get 2, then switch to centimetres (which are 100 times smaller), the number becomes 200 — larger because the unit is smaller. The conversion factor is the reciprocal of the unit-size factor.
Here, the new units are:
- mass unit = α kg (so it's α times larger than the kg)
- length unit = β m (so it's β times larger than the metre)
- time unit = γ s (so it's γ times larger than the second)
Since energy has dimensions [ML2T−2], the numerical value in the new system = (old value) × (mass factor)−1 × (length factor)−2 × (time factor)+2.
Step-by-step derivation
-
Write the given conversion in SI units
1 calorie=4.2 J and 1 J=1 kg m2s−2.
So dimensionally, 1 calorie=4.2 [ML2T−2] in SI.
-
Define the new units
Let:
- M′=α kg (new unit of mass)
- L′=β m (new unit of length)
- T′=γ s (new unit of time)
This means:
- 1 kg=α1 M′
- 1 m=β1 L′
- 1 s=γ1 T′
-
Convert the calorie into new units
Start from 1 cal=4.2 kg m2s−2. Substitute the expressions above:
1 cal=4.2(α1 M′)(β1 L′)2(γ1 T′)−2
Notice the time term: s−2 means we take the reciprocal of the square of the conversion.
- Simplify the powers
=4.2⋅α1⋅β21⋅γ2⋅M′L′2T′−2
The combination M′L′2T′−2 is exactly 1 unit of energy in the new system (by definition, since it has the same dimensions as a joule in the new units).
- Read off the numerical value Therefore, in the new system:
1 calorie=4.2 α−1β−2γ2 (new energy units)
A common mistake is to get the sign of the exponent on γ wrong. Remember: time appears in the denominator (T−2), so when the unit gets larger by γ, the numerical factor must increase by γ2 — hence the positive exponent.
The pattern is simple: for a quantity with dimensions [MaLbTc], the conversion factor is α−aβ−bγ−c. Here a=1, b=2, c=−2, so it's α−1β−2γ2.
The magnitude of a calorie in the new units is 4.2 α−1β−2γ2.
Method: Dimensional Analysis for Unit Conversion
This method uses the fact that physical quantities have dimensions that remain invariant under a change of units. We express the given quantity in terms of base dimensions, then convert each base unit to the new system.
Steps
Step 1: Write the dimension of energy (calorie or joule)
From 1 J=1 kg m2 s−2, the dimension of energy is:
[E]=[M][L]2[T]−2
Step 2: Express the conversion factor for each base unit
-
New unit of mass =α kg
⇒1 kg=α−1 (new mass units)
-
New unit of length =β m
⇒1 m=β−1 (new length units)
-
New unit of time =γ s
⇒1 s=γ−1 (new time units)
Step 3: Substitute into the dimensional formula
Since 1 calorie=4.2 J, and 1 J=1 kg m2 s−2, we replace each base unit:
1 calorie=4.2×(1 kg)×(1 m)2×(1 s)−2=4.2×(α−1)×(β−1)2×(γ−1)−2=4.2 α−1 β−2 γ2
Step 4: Write the final result
1 calorie=4.2 α−1 β−2 γ2 (in new units)
Key Insight
The numerical value of a physical quantity changes inversely with the size of the unit. Since the new mass unit is α times larger than kg, the numerical value in new units becomes α−1 times the old value — and similarly for length and time, following the dimensional exponents.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
1. Confusing the direction of conversion (inverse vs. direct)
The Mistake:
Students often think: "Since 1 new unit of mass = α kg, then 1 kg = α new units." This is wrong.
Why it's wrong:
If the new unit is larger (e.g., α>1), then the number of new units in 1 kg should be smaller.
- Example: If α=2 (1 new mass unit = 2 kg), then 1 kg = 0.5 new units = α−1 new units.
How to avoid:
Always ask: "Is the new unit bigger or smaller than the old unit?"
- 1 new unit = α old units → 1 old unit = α1 new units = α−1 new units.
Correct relation:
- 1 kg = α−1 new mass units
- 1 m = β−1 new length units
- 1 s = γ−1 new time units
2. Forgetting to convert all three base units
The Mistake:
Students convert mass correctly but forget to convert length and time in the expression 1 J=1 kg m2s−2.
Why it's wrong:
The joule involves three base units — missing even one gives the wrong exponent.
How to avoid:
Write the dimensional formula explicitly:
[E]=[M][L]2[T]−2
Then convert each dimension separately:
| Old unit | Conversion factor to new units |
|---|---|
| kg | α−1 |
| m | β−1 |
| s | γ−1 |
So:
1 J=1 (α−1)(β−1)2(γ−1)−2
=α−1β−2γ2 new units of energy
3. Getting the sign of the time exponent wrong
The Mistake:
Students write γ−2 instead of γ2.
Why it's wrong:
Time appears in the denominator (s−2). When converting, the factor for s−2 becomes (γ−1)−2=γ2.
How to avoid:
Treat the exponent carefully:
- s−2 means (time)−2
- 1 s = γ−1 new time units
- So s−2=(γ−1)−2=γ2
Quick check: If γ>1 (new time unit is longer), the numerical value of energy in new units should be larger — which γ2 gives.
4. Forgetting to multiply by the numerical factor (4.2)
The Mistake:
Students show the conversion factor correctly but forget that 1 calorie = 4.2 J, so the final answer must include 4.2.
How to avoid:
Always start with:
1 cal=4.2 J
Then convert the joule. Never drop the 4.2.
Final correct expression:
1 cal=4.2 α−1β−2γ2 new units
Quick Summary Checklist
| Step | Common Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Mass conversion | 1 kg = α new units | 1 kg = α−1 new units |
| Length conversion | 1 m = β new units | 1 m = β−1 new units |
| Time conversion | 1 s = γ new units | 1 s = γ−1 new units |
| Time exponent | γ−2 | γ2 (because s−2) |
| Numerical factor | Omit 4.2 | Keep 4.2 as multiplier |
Final answer to verify against:
1 cal=4.2 α−1β−2γ2
Showing the 12 most recent of 24 on this concept.
- AP EAPCET 2026Set eng-2026-05-12-FN1 markMCQQ.Match the physical quantities with their Dimensional formulae:
Physical Quantity Dimensional Formula a) Coefficient of Viscosity (η) (i) | M−1L3T4A2 | | b) | Young's Modulus (Y) |(ii) | ML−1T−1 | | c) | Permittivity (ε) |(iii) | ML−1T−2 | | d) | Universal Gravitational constant (G) |(iv) | M−1L3T−2 | (A) a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(iv), d-(i) (B) a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv) (C) a-(iii), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iv) (D) a-(iv), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iii)›Reveal solutionSolution
Matching each quantity to its known SI dimensional formula: viscosity-(ii), Young's modulus-(iii), permittivity-(i), gravitational constant-(iv).
Concept and Intuition
Each physical quantity has a fixed dimensional formula derivable from its defining equation. Recognizing a couple of these outright (especially G, which has a very distinctive L3T−2 signature, and viscosity/Young's modulus, which are both mechanical but differ by one power of T) lets the rest fall into place by elimination.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Young's modulus Y: stress/strain = (Force/Area)/(dimensionless) = L2MLT−2=ML−1T−2 — matches (iii).
- Coefficient of viscosity η: from Newton's law of viscosity, F=ηAdxdv, so η=AF⋅vL=L2MLT−2⋅LT−1L=ML−1T−1 — matches (ii).
- Universal gravitational constant G: from F=r2Gm1m2, G=m1m2Fr2=M2MLT−2⋅L2=M−1L3T−2 — this matches (iv) exactly.
- Permittivity ε: by elimination it must match the only remaining option (i). Permittivity's formula genuinely involves the ampere (A2) since it appears in Coulomb's law with charge (current×time), and (i) is the only listed option carrying A2 — consistent with permittivity being the odd one out among these four (electrical, not purely mechanical).
- So the matching is a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv).
Common Mistakes
- Confusing viscosity and Young's modulus, which differ only in the power of T (T−1 vs T−2) — easy to swap under time pressure.
- Misremembering G's formula sign/powers; its distinctive M−1L3T−2 form (option iv) is worth memorizing directly.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B) — a-(ii), b-(iii), c-(i), d-(iv).
ANSWER: B
- AP EAPCET 2026Set ap-2026-05-20-AN1 markMCQQ.Match the physical quantities in List I with the corresponding SI units in List II List I | List II A. Torque | I. N m s−1 B. Stress | II. N m kg−1 C. Latent heat | III. N m D. Power | IV. N m−2 (A) A – III, B – II, C – I, D – IV (B) A – III, B – IV, C – II, D – I (C) A – IV, B – I, C – III, D – II (D) A – II, B – III, C – I, D - IV
›Reveal solutionSolution
This tests whether you can derive the SI unit of each quantity from its defining formula, then read it off in the N,m,kg,s combination given in List II. Answer: (B).
Concept and Intuition
Every mechanical quantity's unit can be built from its defining equation. Torque is a force times a lever arm, so its unit is simply force × length. Stress is force per unit area, the inverse geometry of torque. Latent heat is energy delivered per unit mass (no time involved — it's not a rate). Power is energy delivered per unit time. Keeping the defining relation in mind (not memorising units) lets you rebuild any of these from N, m, kg, s.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Torque τ=F×r: unit =N⋅m → matches III.
- Stress =F/A: unit =N/m2=Nm−2 → matches IV.
- Latent heat L=Q/m (heat per unit mass): unit =J/kg=(Nm)/kg=Nmkg−1 → matches II.
- Power P=W/t: unit =J/s=(Nm)/s=Nms−1 → matches I.
- Combine: A–III, B–IV, C–II, D–I.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing torque's unit with energy's unit (Nm looks identical to Joule but torque is not an energy).
- Mixing up latent heat's kg−1 with power's s−1 — remembering "heat needs mass, power needs time" avoids this.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B) — A – III, B – IV, C – II, D – I.
ANSWER: B
- AP EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-23-FN1 markMCQQ.Of the following, the pair of physical quantities not having the same dimensional formula is (A) work and torque (B) angular momentum and Planck's constant (C) stress and linear momentum (D) surface tension and force constant
›Reveal solutionSolution
This tests recall/derivation of dimensional formulas for several physical-quantity pairs to find the one mismatch. Answer: (C).
Concept and Intuition
Many pairs of physical quantities share a dimensional formula even though they measure conceptually different things — that's exactly why "dimensional formula" problems are useful for unit-consistency checks but can't distinguish physically different quantities. Here we must actually compute each pair's dimensions.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Work and torque: Work =F⋅d, torque =F⋅d (force times a perpendicular distance) — both give [ML2T−2]. Same.
- Angular momentum and Planck's constant: Angular momentum L=mvr has dimensions [M][LT−1][L]=[ML2T−1]. Planck's constant from E=hν: h=E/ν, dimensions [ML2T−2]/[T−1]=[ML2T−1]. Same.
- Stress and linear momentum: Stress = force/area =[MLT−2]/[L2]=[ML−1T−2]. Linear momentum =mv=[M][LT−1]=[MLT−1]. These are not the same (different powers of L and T).
- Surface tension and force constant: Surface tension = force/length =[MLT−2]/[L]=[MT−2]. Force (spring) constant = force/displacement =[MLT−2]/[L]=[MT−2]. Same.
- Only pair (C) has mismatched dimensions.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing stress (force per area) with pressure and momentum with impulse; the actual computation of dimensions must be done carefully rather than relying on memory of "seems similar."
- Forgetting that Planck's constant has the same dimension as angular momentum — this is a classic and useful fact (action).
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C) — stress and linear momentum.
ANSWER: C
- AP EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-05-20-AN1 markMCQQ.The electron gain enthalpy (ΔegH) of chlorine is −3.7eVmol−1. How much of energy (in k cal mol−1) is released when 7.1 g of chlorine atoms are completely converted into Cl− ions in gaseous state ? (1 eV = 23 k cal) (A) 1.072 (B) 10.72 (C) 17.02 (D) 1.702
›Reveal solutionSolution
Converting the given electron gain enthalpy to kcal/mol and scaling by the moles of chlorine atoms present gives 17.02 kcal released.
Concept and Intuition
Electron gain enthalpy is the energy change when a gaseous atom gains an electron. Since it's negative (energy released) for chlorine, converting to a consistent energy unit and multiplying by the number of moles gives the total heat released.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Moles of Cl atoms: n=35.5 g/mol7.1 g=0.2 mol.
- Convert ΔegH to kcal/mol: 3.7 eV×23 kcal/eV=85.1 kcal/mol (magnitude; the process releases this energy).
- Total energy released: 85.1 kcal/mol×0.2 mol=17.02 kcal.
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting to convert grams to moles using the correct atomic mass of chlorine (35.5 g/mol).
- Missing the eV-to-kcal conversion factor given in the problem.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C) — 17.02.
ANSWER: C
- AP EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-05-20-FN1 markMCQQ.If σ denotes Stefan constant and S denotes heat capacity, then the dimensional formula of σS is (A) [M0L2T−1K3] (B) [M0L2TK3] (C) [ML2T−1K−4] (D) [M0L2T−1K−3]
›Reveal solutionSolution
Using σ=[MT−3K−4] from Stefan's law and S=[ML2T−2K−1] for heat capacity, dividing gives S/σ=[M0L2TK3]. Answer: (B).
Concept and Intuition
Dimensional analysis lets us find the units of a derived physical constant purely from the physical law that defines it, without needing to remember the units by rote. The Stefan-Boltzmann law E=σT4 (power radiated per unit area by a black body, proportional to the fourth power of absolute temperature) directly gives us σ's dimensions once we know the dimensions of power and area. Heat capacity, defined as S=Q/ΔT (heat energy needed per unit rise in temperature), similarly follows directly from the dimensions of energy and temperature.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Write Stefan's law: E=σT4, where E is the power emitted per unit surface area, so E has dimensions of AreaPower=[L2][ML2T−3]=[MT−3].
- So σ=T4E=[K4][MT−3]=[ML0T−3K−4].
- Write the definition of heat capacity: S=ΔTQ, where Q (heat energy) has dimensions of energy, [ML2T−2], and ΔT has dimensions [K].
- So S=[K][ML2T−2]=[ML2T−2K−1].
- Now divide: σS=[MT−3K−4][ML2T−2K−1]=M1−1L2−0T−2−(−3)K−1−(−4)=[M0L2T1K3].
- This matches option (B): [M0L2TK3] (where T with no exponent means T1).
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting the area normalisation while working out σ's dimensions from Stefan's law, which would leave an extra [L2] and give the wrong power of L.
- Sign errors while subtracting negative exponents when dividing (e.g. writing T−1 instead of T+1).
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B) — [M0L2TK3].
ANSWER: B
- AP EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-26-AN1 markMCQQ.If force =density+β3α, then the dimensional formulae of α and β are respectively (A) [ML2T−2],[ML−1/3T0] (B) [M2L4T−2],[M1/3L−1T0] (C) [M2L−2T−2],[M1/3L−1T0] (D) [M2L−2T−2],[ML−3T0]
›Reveal solutionSolution
Tests the principle of dimensional homogeneity — only like quantities can be added. The answer is (C).
Concept and Intuition
In any physically valid equation, terms being added or subtracted must have identical dimensions — you cannot add mass to length. Here β3 is added to density inside the denominator, so β3 must itself carry the dimensions of density.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Density has dimensions [ML−3].
- Since β3 is added to density, [β3]=[ML−3], so [β]=[M1/3L−1T0].
- Because β3 matches density's dimensions, the whole denominator (density+β3) also has dimensions [ML−3].
- From F=density+β3α, we get [α]=[F]×[ML−3]=[MLT−2]×[ML−3]=[M2L−2T−2].
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting that β3 (not β) must match density's dimensions, leading to wrong powers.
- Multiplying force by density incorrectly instead of matching the denominator's combined dimension.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C) — [M2L−2T−2],[M1/3L−1T0].
ANSWER: C
- AP EAPCET 2024Set eng-2024-05-18-FN1 markMCQQ.Match the followinga) Thermal conductivity i) MLT−3K−1b) Boltzman constant ii) M0L2T−2K−1c) Latent heat iii) ML2T−2K−1d) Specific heat iv) M0L2T−2 (A) a-i, b-iii, c-iv, d-ii (B) a-i, b-ii, c-iv, d-iii (C) a-iii, b-ii, c-i, d-iv (D) a-ii, b-i, c-iii, d-iv
›Reveal solutionSolution
Matching each thermal quantity's SI unit to its dimensional formula gives a-i, b-iii, c-iv, d-ii.
Concept and Intuition
Each thermal quantity's dimensional formula follows directly from its defining equation and SI unit; recognizing whether mass and temperature appear (and with what power) quickly distinguishes the four formulas given.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Thermal conductivity k: defined via Q=dkAΔTt, with SI unit Wm−1K−1=kgms−3K−1 → dimension MLT−3K−1, matching (i).
- Boltzmann constant kB: appears in E=kBT (energy = kB× temperature), so its unit is J/K=kgm2s−2K−1 → dimension ML2T−2K−1, matching (iii).
- Latent heat L: defined via Q=mL, so unit is J/kg=m2s−2 → dimension M0L2T−2 (mass cancels out), matching (iv).
- Specific heat s: defined via Q=msT, so unit is J/(kg⋅K)=m2s−2K−1 → dimension M0L2T−2K−1, matching (ii).
- So the correct matching is a-i, b-iii, c-iv, d-ii.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing latent heat and specific heat's dimensions — the extra K−1 in specific heat is the only difference, easy to drop.
- Forgetting Boltzmann constant is fundamentally an energy-per-temperature quantity (mass appears), unlike latent/specific heat where mass cancels.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A) — a-i, b-iii, c-iv, d-ii.
ANSWER: A
- AP EAPCET 2024Set eng-2024-05-20-FN1 markMCQQ.E, m, L, G represent energy, mass, angular momentum and gravitational constant respectively. The dimensions of m5G2EL2 will be that of (A) Angle (B) Length (C) Mass (D) Time
›Reveal solutionSolution
A dimensional-analysis question: substitute the known dimensional formulas for energy, angular momentum, mass and G, and simplify.
Concept and Intuition
Quantities like plane angle, solid angle, strain and refractive index are dimensionless — recognizing that an expression's dimensions cancel completely to [M0L0T0] is the signal that it represents an angle (or another dimensionless ratio), never a physical quantity like length or time.
Step-by-Step Solution
- E (energy) =[ML2T−2]; L (angular momentum) =[ML2T−1]; m=[M]; G (from F=Gm1m2/r2) =[M−1L3T−2].
- Numerator: EL2=[ML2T−2]⋅[ML2T−1]2=[ML2T−2]⋅[M2L4T−2]=[M3L6T−4].
- Denominator: m5G2=[M5]⋅[M−1L3T−2]2=[M5]⋅[M−2L6T−4]=[M3L6T−4].
- So m5G2EL2=[M3L6T−4][M3L6T−4]=[M0L0T0], dimensionless.
- A dimensionless quantity in this list of options corresponds to an angle.
Common Mistakes
- Misremembering the dimensional formula of G (a common source of error — always re-derive it from Newton's law of gravitation).
- Arithmetic slips adding/subtracting the exponents of M, L, T.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A) — Angle.
ANSWER: A
- AP EAPCET 2024Set eng-2024-05-23-FN1 markMCQQ.Which of the following is not a unit of permeability (A) Henry meter−1 (B) Weber ampere−1 meter−1 (C) Ohm second meter−1 (D) Volt second meter−1
›Reveal solutionSolution
Permeability is measured in Henry/meter; check each option by converting it to Henry/meter using 1H=1Ω⋅s=1Wb/A=1V⋅s/A — the option missing the per-ampere factor is not valid.
Concept and Intuition
Permeability μ (as in μ0) is defined via B=μH or via inductance formulas, and its SI unit is the Henry per metre (H/m). Since the Henry itself has several equivalent unit expressions (Wb/A, Ω⋅s, T⋅m/A), several of the listed options are just disguised forms of H/m. The trick is to convert every option back to base SI units and see which one is actually dimensionally inequivalent.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Standard unit: μ0 is in Henry per metre, H/m.
- (A) Henry meter−1 = H/m — this IS the standard unit.
- (B) Weber ampere−1 meter−1 = Wb/(A⋅m). Since 1H=1Wb/A, this is H/m — valid.
- (C) Ohm second meter−1 = Ω⋅s/m. Since Ω=V/A, this is (V⋅s/A)/m=H/m (because H=V⋅s/A from V=LdI/dt) — valid.
- (D) Volt second meter−1 = V⋅s/m. This is missing the A−1 factor that all the correct forms carry — it is NOT equal to H/m, so it is not a valid unit of permeability.
- Therefore (D) is the one that is NOT a unit of permeability.
Common Mistakes
- Not realizing Ohm and Henry are related (Ω⋅s=H), and wrongly flagging option (C) instead.
- Forgetting that Volt·second alone (without dividing by Ampere) is actually the unit of magnetic flux (Weber), not permeability.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D) — Volt second meter−1.
ANSWER: D
- AP EAPCET 2023Set ap-2023-05-22-FN1 markMCQQ.If Young's modules of elasticity is Y=5bt3e2mglx, where 'g' is the acceleration due to gravity, 'm' is the mass, 'l' is the length, 'b' is the breadth, 't' is the thickness and 'e' is the elongation, then the value of x is (A) 1 (B) 2 (C) 3 (D) 4
›Reveal solutionSolution
A dimensional-analysis question: matching the powers of length on both sides fixes x=3. Answer: (C) 3.
Concept and Intuition
Young's modulus is stress divided by strain, i.e. dimensionless strainForce/Area, giving dimensions [ML−1T−2] (same as pressure). Any correct physical formula for Y must reduce to exactly this dimension regardless of what the individual symbols mean — this lets us solve for an unknown exponent purely from dimensional consistency, without needing to know the physical derivation of the formula (which in this case is the standard bending-of-a-beam Young's modulus experiment, where l is the length between supports, b the breadth, t the thickness, and e the elongation/depression).
Step-by-Step Solution
- Write the dimension of each quantity: [m]=M, [g]=LT−2, [l]=L, [b]=L, [t]=L, [e]=L (the numeric factors 2,5 are dimensionless).
- Numerator dimension: [m][g][lx]=M⋅LT−2⋅Lx=ML1+xT−2.
- Denominator dimension: [b][t3][e]=L⋅L3⋅L=L5.
- Overall: [Y]=ML(1+x)−5T−2=MLx−4T−2.
- Set equal to the known dimension of Young's modulus, ML−1T−2: so x−4=−1, giving x=3.
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting that g itself carries a length dimension (acceleration = LT−2), which must be folded into the length-power balance.
- Mis-adding exponents in the denominator (missing that t3 contributes 3 powers of length, not 1).
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C) — 3.
ANSWER: C
- AP EAPCET 2023Set ap-2023-05-23-AN1 markMCQQ.The energy consumed by a 1000 W electric bulb when it is used for 1 hour is (A) 3.6×105W (B) 3.6×106J (C) 3.6×106W (D) 3.6×105J
›Reveal solutionSolution
Energy consumed equals power times time: 1000 W×1 hour=3.6×106 J.
Concept and Intuition
Electrical energy consumed by an appliance is the product of its power rating and the duration of use: E=Pt. Power (watts) is energy per unit time, so multiplying by time (in seconds) recovers energy in joules. This is also the basis for the commercial unit 'kWh' (1 kWh = 1000 W × 3600 s = 3.6×106 J).
Step-by-Step Solution
- Given: P=1000 W, t=1 hour =3600 s.
- E=Pt=1000×3600=3.6×106 J.
- Options (A) and (C) are expressed in watts (a unit of power, not energy) — dimensionally wrong for 'energy consumed,' so they can be eliminated on units alone.
- Option (D), 3.6×105 J, is off by a factor of 10 from the correct value.
- Hence the correct value is 3.6×106 J, option (B).
Common Mistakes
- Confusing units of power (W) with units of energy (J) when reading multiple-choice options — always check that 'energy' answers are in joules, not watts.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B) — 3.6×106 J.
ANSWER: B
- AP EAPCET 2023Set eng-2023-05-15-AN1 markMCQQ.Among the following, the unit of permeability is NOT represented by (A) henry/metre (B) weber/ampere (C) ohm-second/metre (D) volt-second/metre2
›Reveal solutionSolution
Permeability's SI unit is H/m, equally expressible as Wb/(A⋅m),
T⋅m/A, or Ω⋅s/m. "Volt-second per square metre" is dimensionally
just Wb/m2= tesla — the unit of magnetic flux density, not permeability — so it
is the one option that does NOT represent permeability.
Concept and Intuition
Permeability μ appears in B=μH, relating flux density B (tesla) to the
magnetising field H (ampere/metre). So dimensionally,
[μ]=[H][B]=A/mtesla=tesla⋅m⋅A−1.
Every correct unit of permeability must carry this exact combination: one length
in the numerator, one ampere in the denominator (along with whatever combination of
kg, m, s reproduces tesla). Recognising which listed unit is "one ampere short" (or
has an extra/misplaced length power) is the key skill being tested.
Step-by-Step Solution
- Recall the standard equivalent forms of permeability's unit, all equal to
kg⋅m⋅s−2⋅A−2:
- Henry/metre (H/m)
- Weber/(Ampere·metre) (WbA−1m−1)
- Ohm·second/metre (Ωsm−1)
- Tesla·metre/Ampere (TmA−1)
- Check (A) Henry/metre: this is the textbook SI unit itself — correct.
- Check (C) Ohm-second/metre: Ω=V/A, so Ω⋅s/m=(V⋅s)/(A⋅m)=Wb/(A⋅m)=H/m — correct (uses 1 Wb=1 V⋅s).
- Check (D) Volt-second/metre²: 1 V⋅s=1 Wb, so this unit is Wb/m2, which is exactly the definition of the tesla — the unit of magnetic flux density B, not of permeability μ. It is missing the /ampere factor that converts B's unit into μ's unit — so this does NOT represent permeability.
- (Option B, weber/ampere-metre, is the same as Wb/(A⋅m) from step 1 — correct.)
- So the one unit that is NOT a valid representation of permeability is (D).
Common Mistakes
- Confusing tesla (Wb/m2, flux density) with the permeability unit (Wb/(A⋅m), i.e. flux density per unit of magnetising field) — they look superficially similar but differ by a factor of 1/A.
- Not converting volt-second to weber before comparing dimensions.
- Assuming any unit built from "volt", "second", and "metre" must be some standard magnetic unit without checking the actual powers involved.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D) — volt-second/metre².
ANSWER: D
- Recall the standard equivalent forms of permeability's unit, all equal to
kg⋅m⋅s−2⋅A−2:
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