Q.Why length, mass and time are chosen as base quantities in mechanics?
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🔒 Start your 14-day free trial to unlock the full solution →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 |
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: …
The choice of length, mass, and time as base quantities in mechanics is rooted in the concept of fundamental quantities and their role in dimensional analysis.
These three quantities are chosen because:
- Mutual Independence: They are mutually independent; none can be expressed or derived in terms of the other two.
- Sufficiency: All other physical quantities in mechanics, such as velocity, acceleration, force, and energy, can be dimensionally expressed as combinations of length, mass, and time.
- Direct Measurability: They are directly and accurately measurable using standard, universally accepted instruments. …
Length, mass, and time are chosen as base quantities in mechanics because they are fundamental, mutually independent, and together sufficient to define all other mechanical quantities, while also being precisely measurable and reproducible.
In physics, we deal with many different physical quantities like speed, force, energy, and temperature. To measure and compare these quantities consistently, we need a standardized system. This system is built upon a small set of fundamental quantities, known as base quantities, from which all other quantities can be derived.
The choice of base quantities is not arbitrary; it follows specific logical and practical criteria. For the domain of mechanics, which deals with motion, forces, and energy without considering electrical, thermal, or optical phenomena, length, mass, and time emerge as the natural and most effective choices.
Here's a breakdown of why:
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What are Base and Derived Quantities?
- Base Quantities are the fundamental, independent physical quantities that cannot be expressed in terms of any other physical quantities. They form the foundation of a system of measurement.
- Derived Quantities are those quantities that can be expressed as a combination or product of base quantities. For example, speed is derived from length and time (speed=length/time).
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Why Do We Need Base Quantities?
Imagine trying to define every single physical quantity independently. It would be an endless and inconsistent task. By selecting a minimal set of base quantities, we create a coherent and universal framework. All other quantities can then be systematically defined and measured based on these few fundamental ones. This simplifies the entire system of units.
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Criteria for Choosing Base Quantities
A good set of base quantities must satisfy several crucial conditions:
- Fundamentality and Independence: Each base quantity must be truly fundamental and independent of the others. You should not be able to define one base quantity using a combination of the others.
- Sufficiency: The chosen set must be sufficient to derive all other quantities within the specific domain of physics (in this case, mechanics).
- Measurability and Reproducibility: They must be precisely measurable and their units must be easily reproducible anywhere in the world.
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Applying the Criteria to Length, Mass, and Time in Mechanics
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Length (L):
- Fundamentality & Independence: Length describes spatial extent or distance. It cannot be defined in terms of mass or time. For instance, you cannot say "a meter is equivalent to a certain number of kilograms per second." It's a distinct concept.
- Sufficiency: Length is essential for describing position, displacement, distance, size, and dimensions of objects.
- Measurability: The standard unit, the meter, is precisely defined (e.g., in terms of the speed of light).
-
Mass (M):
- Fundamentality & Independence: Mass represents the amount of matter in an object or its inertia (resistance to change in motion). It is distinct from length (spatial extent) and time (duration). You cannot define mass using length and time.
- Sufficiency: Mass is crucial for concepts like force (F=ma), momentum (p=mv), and energy (E=mc2 or kinetic energy Ek=21mv2).
- Measurability: The standard unit, the kilogram, is precisely defined (e.g., in terms of Planck's constant).
-
Time (T):
- Fundamentality & Independence: Time describes the duration of events and the sequence in which they occur. It is fundamentally different from spatial extent (length) and amount of matter (mass). You cannot define time using length and mass.
- Sufficiency: Time is indispensable for describing motion (velocity, acceleration), rates of change, and the evolution of physical systems. …
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Concept: Base Quantities in Mechanics
In physics, a base quantity is one that is defined independently — it cannot be expressed in terms of other quantities. All other quantities (called derived quantities) are built from these base ones.
Why length, mass, and time?
Mechanics deals with motion and the forces that cause it. To describe any mechanical phenomenon, you need only three fundamental ideas:
- Where something is → Length (L)
- How much matter it has → Mass (M)
- When it happens → Time (T)
Every other mechanical quantity can be expressed using just these three. For example:
- Velocity = TimeLength → [LT−1]
- Acceleration = Time2Length → [LT−2]
- Force = Mass×Acceleration → [MLT−2]
- Energy = Force×Length → [ML2T−2]
The Method: Dimensional Analysis
This is the standard method to verify why these three are sufficient.
Steps:
- Identify the domain — Mechanics only (no electricity, heat, or light).
- List all mechanical quantities — displacement, velocity, acceleration, force, momentum, work, power, etc.
- Express each in terms of L, M, T — as shown above. …
Here is the breakdown of the common mistakes students make when answering "Why are length, mass, and time chosen as base quantities in mechanics?" and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Confusing "Base" with "Fundamental" (Vague Reasoning)
The Mistake:
Students often say: "Because they are fundamental quantities." This is circular reasoning. The question asks why they were chosen as base quantities, not just to label them as such.
Why it’s wrong:
In physics, "fundamental" is a property of the quantity itself (e.g., length cannot be derived from anything simpler). However, the choice of base quantities is a human convention for building a system of units (like SI). You must explain the criteria for that choice.
How to Avoid:
Always state the three criteria for choosing a base quantity in mechanics:
- Independence: The quantity cannot be expressed in terms of other chosen base quantities.
- Universality: It is measurable everywhere (e.g., length is universal; "electric charge" is not needed in pure mechanics).
- Practicality: It can be measured with high precision and reproducibility (e.g., time via atomic clocks).
Correct approach: "Length, mass, and time are chosen because they are mutually independent (you cannot derive length from mass or time), universally applicable to all mechanical phenomena (motion, force, energy), and practically measurable with high precision."
Mistake 2: Forgetting the "Mechanics" Constraint
The Mistake:
Students list all seven SI base quantities (including temperature, current, etc.) and say "these are the base quantities."
Why it’s wrong:
The question explicitly says "in mechanics." Mechanics deals only with motion, forces, and energy. Temperature, luminous intensity, amount of substance, and electric current are irrelevant to pure mechanical systems.
How to Avoid:
Mentally scope the domain. In mechanics, the only physical quantities needed to describe all phenomena are:
- Length (space/position)
- Mass (inertia/gravity)
- Time (duration/rate)
Correct approach: "In the domain of mechanics, all other quantities (velocity, acceleration, force, energy, momentum) can be expressed as combinations of length, mass, and time. No other base quantity is required."
Mistake 3: Claiming They Are "Indestructible" or "Absolute"
The Mistake:
Students write: "Length, mass, and time are absolute and do not change."
Why it’s wrong:
This is factually incorrect. According to Einstein’s theory of relativity:
- Length is relative (Lorentz contraction).
- Time is relative (time dilation).
- Mass is not invariant (relativistic mass depends on velocity).
How to Avoid:
Acknowledge that the choice is practical and conventional, not metaphysical. Use the phrase "in the context of classical (Newtonian) mechanics."
Correct approach: "In classical mechanics, which deals with speeds much less than the speed of light, length, mass, and time are invariant and independent. They form the simplest set from which all other mechanical quantities can be derived."
Mistake 4: Listing Derived Quantities Instead of Explaining the Choice
The Mistake:
Students write: "Because velocity = length/time, force = mass × acceleration, etc."
Why it’s wrong:
This shows that other quantities depend on L, M, T — but it doesn't explain why L, M, T were chosen as the base rather than, say, force and velocity.
How to Avoid:
Explain the minimal set concept. You need the smallest number of independent quantities that can generate all others. L, M, T are the minimum set for mechanics.
Correct approach: "Length, mass, and time form a minimal and independent set. For example, force can be expressed as [MLT−2], but force cannot be used to define length or mass. Thus, L, M, T are the natural choice for base quantities."
Mistake 5: Ignoring the Role of Standards (SI Units)
The Mistake: …
Showing the 12 most recent of 17 on this concept.
- COMEDK 2026Set 2026-A1 markMCQQ.The dimensional formula for specific resistance is: (A) [ML3T3A2] (B) [ML3T−3A−2] (C) [ML−3T−2A−2] (D) [ML3T−3A2]
›Reveal solutionSolution
Specific resistance (resistivity) is derived from resistance using R=ρAL, so its dimensional formula is [ML3T−3A−2], which corresponds to option (B).
Concept & Intuition
Specific resistance, or resistivity (ρ), is a material property that quantifies how strongly it opposes current flow. The key is to start from something familiar: resistance R, which obeys Ohm’s law V=IR. We know the dimensions of voltage (V), current (I), and length (L), and the relation R=ρAL ties them together. By finding the dimensions of R first, then isolating ρ, we get the answer cleanly.
Step-by-step derivation
- Recall the formula linking resistance and resistivity For a uniform conductor of length L and cross-sectional area A,
R=ρAL.
So resistivity is
ρ=R⋅LA.
If we find the dimensions of R, A, and L, we can combine them.
- Find the dimensions of resistance R from Ohm’s law
Ohm’s law: V=IR, so R=V/I.
- Current I has dimension [A] (amperes).
- Voltage V is work per unit charge: V=W/Q. Work W has dimensions of energy: [ML2T−2]. Charge Q=I⋅t, so [Q]=[AT]. Hence [V]=[AT][ML2T−2]=[ML2T−3A−1].
- Therefore,
[R]=[I][V]=[A][ML2T−3A−1]=[ML2T−3A−2].
- Combine with area and length
From ρ=R⋅LA:
- Area A has dimension [L2]. …
- COMEDK 2026Set 2026-A1 markMCQQ.In the equation X=G−1/2h1/2c5/2, where G- universal gravitation constant, h - Planck's constant and c - velocity of light, the dimensions of X are that of (A) Stress (B) Energy (C) Upthrust (D) Momentum
›Reveal solutionSolution
Substituting the dimensions of G, h and c into X=G−1/2h1/2c5/2 and adding exponents gives [X]=ML2T−2, the dimension of energy — option (B).
Concept
Every physical constant carries a dimensional formula in terms of mass M, length L and time T. Raising each to its power in the expression and summing the exponents base by base gives the dimensions of X:
[G]=M−1L3T−2,[h]=ML2T−1,[c]=LT−1.
Solution
- Apply each exponent:
[G−1/2]=(M−1L3T−2)−1/2=M1/2L−3/2T1,
[h1/2]=(ML2T−1)1/2=M1/2L1T−1/2,
[c5/2]=(LT−1)5/2=L5/2T−5/2.
- Multiply and collect exponents:
- Mass: 21+21=1.
- Length: −23+1+25=2.
- Time: 1−21−25=−2.
[X]=M1L2T−2. …
- KCET 2025Set D-41 markMCQQ.Match the following types of nuclei with examples shown Column-I \hspace{1cm} Column-II \ A. Isotopes \hspace{1cm} i. LiX7, BeX7 \ B. Isobars \hspace{1cm} ii. OX18, FX19 \ C. Isotopes \hspace{1cm} iii. HX1, HX2 (A) A-ii, B-iii, C-i (B) A-i, B-iii, C-ii (C) A-iii, B-ii, C-i (D) A-iii, B-i, C-ii
›Reveal solutionSolution
Classify each nuclide pair by what it holds constant — proton number (isotopes), mass number (isobars), or neutron number (isotones) — and match.
Step 1 — The three definitions.
For a nuclide ZAX, with Z = proton number, A = mass number and N=A−Z = neutron number:
Family Same Different Isotopes Z (same element) A (and hence N) Isobars A Z and N Isotones N Z and A (Column-I lists "Isotopes" twice; the third entry, C, must be Isotones — otherwise two rows would be identical and only one Column-II pair could satisfy them. The three Column-II pairs are exactly one of each family, which confirms the reading.)
Step 2 — Analyse each Column-II pair.
(i) Li7 and Be7
- 37Li: Z=3, A=7, N=4
- 47Be: Z=4, A=7, N=3
Same mass number (A=7), different Z ⇒ ISOBARS.
(ii) O18 and F19
- 818O: Z=8, A=18, N=18−8=10
- 919F: Z=9, A=19, N=19−9=10
Different Z, different A, but the same neutron number (N=10) ⇒ ISOTONES.
(iii) H1 and H2 …
- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-A1 markMCQQ.What is the dimensional formula for electric flux? (A) [M1 L3 T−2 A−1] (B) [M2 L3 T−3 A−1] (C) [M1 L2 T−3 A−1] (D) [M1 L3 T−3 A−1]
›Reveal solutionSolution
Electric flux is defined as ΦE=E⋅A, so its dimension is the product of electric field and area. The electric field has dimensions [M1L1T−3A−1], and area has [L2], giving electric flux dimensions [M1L3T−3A−1], which corresponds to option (D).
The key is to recall that electric flux measures the "flow" of electric field through a surface. Since it's the dot product of electric field E and area vector A, its dimension is simply the product of their dimensions.
-
Start with the definition
Electric flux ΦE=E⋅A. So [ΦE]=[E]⋅[A].
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Find the dimension of electric field E
From Coulomb’s law: F=4πε01r2q1q2, so E=qF.
Force F has dimensions [MLT−2], and charge q has dimensions [AT] (since current I=q/t).
Thus [E]=[AT][MLT−2]=[M1L1T−3A−1].
-
Find the dimension of area A
Area is length squared: [A]=[L2].
-
Multiply them
[ΦE]=[M1L1T−3A−1]×[L2]=[M1L3T−3A−1]. …
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- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-A1 markMCQQ.In the expression P=El2 m−5G−2 where E,1, m and G represent Energy, Angular Momentum, Mass and Gravitational Constant, the dimensions of P are (A) [M1 L2 T−2] (B) [M0 L2 T−2] (C) [M0 L0 T0] (D) [M0 L0 T−2]
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key idea is to substitute the fundamental dimensions of energy, angular momentum, mass, and the gravitational constant into the given expression and simplify. The result shows that P is dimensionless, so the correct option is (C).
We are given:
P=El2m−5G−2
where E = energy, l = angular momentum, m = mass, and G = gravitational constant. We need the dimensions of P.
Why this approach works
Every physical quantity can be expressed in terms of the fundamental dimensions: mass [M], length [L], and time [T]. By writing each given quantity in these dimensions, we can combine them algebraically to find the dimensions of P. If all dimensions cancel, P is dimensionless.
Step-by-step reasoning
- Dimensions of energy (E) Energy = work = force × distance. Force = mass × acceleration, so:
[E]=[MLT−2]×[L]=[ML2T−2]
- Dimensions of angular momentum (l) Angular momentum = moment of inertia × angular velocity, or more directly:
l=mass×velocity×radius
Velocity has dimensions [LT−1], so:
[l]=[M]×[LT−1]×[L]=[ML2T−1]
- Dimensions of mass (m) Simply:
[m]=[M]
- Dimensions of gravitational constant (G) From Newton’s law: F=Gr2m1m2. Rearranging:
G=m1m2Fr2
Force has dimensions [MLT−2], so:
[G]=[M2][MLT−2][L2]=[M−1L3T−2]
- Combine into the expression for P
[P]=[E]×[l]2×[m]−5×[G]−2
Substitute each:
- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-E1 markMCQQ.The unit of universal gravitational constant is : (A) Nm2 kg2 (B) Nm−2 kg−2 (C) Nm−2 kg2 (D) Nm2 kg−2
›Reveal solutionSolution
The universal gravitational constant G appears in Newton’s law F=Gr2m1m2. Solving for G gives units of Nm2kg−2, so the correct choice is (D).
The key is to remember that units must balance in any physical equation. Newton’s law of gravitation tells us the force between two masses depends on their product and the inverse square of the distance. The constant G is the proportionality factor that makes the numbers work — so its units are whatever is needed to turn the right‑hand side into newtons.
- Start with the defining equation Newton’s law:
F=Gr2m1m2
Here F is force (in newtons, N), m1 and m2 are masses (in kg), and r is distance (in m).
- Rearrange to isolate G
G=m1m2Fr2
-
Substitute the base SI units
- Force F has units of N (newton).
- Distance r has units of m.
- Masses have units of kg.
So:
Units of G=(kg)(kg)(N)(m2)=Nm2kg−2
- Match with the options
- (A) Nm2kg2 → mass squared in numerator, wrong.
- (B) Nm−2kg−2 → distance in denominator, wrong.
- (C) Nm−2kg2 → both distance and mass inverted, wrong. …
- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-E1 markMCQQ.Two physical quantities having the same dimensional formula [M1 L−1 T−2] are (A) Thrust and Strain (B) Moment of force and Thrust (C) Stress and Pressure (D) Work and thrust
›Reveal solutionSolution
The dimensional formula [M1 L−1 T−2] corresponds to pressure or stress — force per unit area. Among the options, only stress and pressure share this formula, so the correct choice is (C).
The key idea is that dimensional analysis lets us match physical quantities by their fundamental units. Here, the given formula [M1 L−1 T−2] means: one power of mass, one inverse power of length, and two inverse powers of time. That’s exactly the combination you get when you take force (mass × acceleration, [MLT−2]) and divide it by area ([L2]). So any quantity that is “force per unit area” will have this formula. The classic examples are pressure and stress. Let’s check each option.
-
Option (A): Thrust and Strain
- Thrust is a force (e.g., from a rocket engine), so its dimension is [MLT−2].
- Strain is a ratio of lengths (change in length / original length), so it is dimensionless: [M0L0T0].
- They do not match the given formula. So (A) is wrong.
-
Option (B): Moment of force and Thrust
- Moment of force (torque) is force × distance, so its dimension is [ML2T−2].
- Thrust, as above, is [MLT−2].
- These are different from each other and from the target formula. So (B) is wrong.
-
Option (C): Stress and Pressure
- Stress = force / area, and pressure = force / area. Both have dimension [MLT−2]/[L2]=[ML−1T−2].
- This matches exactly. So (C) is correct.
-
Option (D): Work and Thrust …
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- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-M1 markMCQQ.If R and L denote resistance and inductance of a material, then the dimension of LR will be: (A) M2L4T−5A−4 (B) MLTA−1 (C) M0L0T0A0 (D) M−1L4TA−3
›Reveal solutionSolution
Computing [L] and [R] from their defining relations and multiplying gives M2L4T−5A−4, matching option (A).
Concept & Intuition
Inductance appears in the energy stored by an inductor, U=21LI2; resistance appears in Ohm's law, V=IR. Using energy (ML2T−2), current (A), and voltage as energy per charge, both dimensions follow directly.
Step-by-step derivation
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Dimension of L.
From U=21LI2: [L]=[I]2[U]=A2ML2T−2=ML2T−2A−2.
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Dimension of R.
Voltage is energy per charge: [V]=ATML2T−2=ML2T−3A−1. From V=IR: [R]=[I][V]=ML2T−3A−2.
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Multiply.
[LR]=(ML2T−2A−2)(ML2T−3A−2)=M2L4T−5A−4 …
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- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-A1 markMCQQ.If units of mass, length and gravitational constant are chosen to fundamental units, the dimensions of time would be (A) M1/2 L1/2G−1/2 (B) M1 L1/2G2 (C) M−1/2 L3/2G−1/2 (D) M−1 L3G−1
›Reveal solutionSolution
We treat mass (M), length (L), and the gravitational constant (G) as fundamental dimensions, then solve for the dimension of time (T) by expressing G in terms of M, L, T and inverting the relation. The result is that time has dimensions M−1/2L3/2G−1/2, which corresponds to option (C).
The key idea is that we are redefining the set of fundamental units. Normally, mass (M), length (L), and time (T) are fundamental, and the gravitational constant G has derived dimensions. Here, the problem says: choose M, L, and G as the fundamental units. That means we must express the dimension of time in terms of M, L, and G. So we need to find exponents a,b,c such that:
[T]=MaLbGc
We know the usual dimensions of G from Newton’s law of gravitation: F=Gr2m1m2. Force has dimensions MLT−2, so:
[G]=[m1][m2][F][r2]=M2(MLT−2)(L2)=M−1L3T−2
Now we treat this as an equation relating dimensions. We want to solve for [T] in terms of M,L,G.
- Write the dimensional equation. We have [T]=MaLbGc. Substitute the known dimensions of G:
[T]=MaLb(M−1L3T−2)c
Simplify:
[T]=Ma−cLb+3cT−2c
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Match exponents on both sides.
The left side is T1, which in terms of M, L, T is M0L0T1. So we equate exponents:
- For M: a−c=0
- For L: b+3c=0
- For T: −2c=1
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Solve the system.
From the T-equation: −2c=1⇒c=−21.
Then from M: a−(−21)=0⇒a=−21. …
- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-E1 markMCQQ.The dimension [ML−1 T−2] is the physical quantity of (A) Pressure × Area (B) PressureForce (C) Power × Time (D) Energy density
›Reveal solutionSolution
The dimension [ML−1T−2] matches energy density (energy per unit volume). The correct option is (D).
We are given the dimensional formula [ML−1T−2] and asked which physical quantity it represents. The key is to recall the dimensions of common physical quantities and see which one matches exactly.
Concept and intuition:
Dimensions are like the "DNA" of a physical quantity — they tell us how it depends on mass (M), length (L), and time (T). If we know the dimensions of a quantity, we can identify it by comparing with known formulas. Here, [ML−1T−2] looks like pressure (force per area) but let's check each option carefully.
- Option (A): Pressure × Area Pressure has dimensions [ML−1T−2] (force per area). Multiplying by area ([L2]) gives:
[ML−1T−2]×[L2]=[ML1T−2]
That is the dimension of force, not [ML−1T−2]. So (A) is incorrect.
- Option (B): Force / Pressure Force has dimensions [MLT−2]. Dividing by pressure [ML−1T−2] gives:
[ML−1T−2][MLT−2]=[L2]
That is area, not the given dimension. So (B) is incorrect.
- Option (C): Power × Time Power has dimensions [ML2T−3] (energy per time). Multiplying by time [T] gives:
[ML2T−3]×[T]=[ML2T−2]
That is energy (or work), not [ML−1T−2]. So (C) is incorrect.
- Option (D): Energy density …
- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-E1 markMCQQ.Joule second is the unit of (A) Energy (B) Power (C) Angular momentum (D) Linear momentum
›Reveal solutionSolution
Joule-second =kgm2s−1, the dimensions of angular momentum (and of Planck's constant).
Energy has units J=kgm2s−2, so
J⋅s=kgm2s−1
Angular momentum L=Iω has units (kgm2)(s−1)=kgm2s−1=J⋅s. …
- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-M1 markMCQQ.Find the value of 'n' in the given equation P=ρnv2 where 'P' is the pressure, 'ρ' density and 'v' velocity. (A) n=21 (B) n=1 (C) n=3 (D) n=2
›Reveal solutionSolution
The problem is solved by dimensional analysis: pressure has dimensions [ML−1T−2], density [ML−3], and velocity [LT−1]; equating exponents gives n=1, so the correct option is (B).
Concept & Intuition
When an equation relates physical quantities, the dimensions on both sides must match — this is the principle of dimensional homogeneity. Here we’re told P=ρnv2, but we don’t yet know n. By writing each quantity in terms of mass (M), length (L), and time (T), we can solve for the exponent n that makes the dimensions balance. This is a classic trick: instead of memorizing formulas, let the units guide you.
Step-by-step reasoning
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Write the dimensions of each quantity
- Pressure P is force per area. Force = mass × acceleration, so [P]=[L2][MLT−2]=ML−1T−2.
- Density ρ is mass per volume: [ρ]=ML−3.
- Velocity v is length per time: [v]=LT−1.
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Set up the dimensional equation
The given equation is P=ρnv2. Taking dimensions:
[P]=[ρ]n⋅[v]2
Substitute the dimensional forms:
M1L−1T−2=(M1L−3)n⋅(L1T−1)2
- Simplify the right-hand side
M1L−1T−2=MnL−3n⋅L2T−2
Combine the length terms:
M1L−1T−2=MnL−3n+2T−2
- Equate exponents for each base
- For mass M: 1=n → n=1.
- For length L: −1=−3n+2. Substitute n=1: −1=−3(1)+2=−1, which checks. …
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