Q.Fill in the blanks:
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: Significant Figures Calculation — each conversion must preserve the number of significant figures from the given data.
(a) Side 1 cm=0.01 m. Volume =(0.01 m)3=1×10−6 m3.
(b) Radius 2.0 cm=20 mm, height 10.0 cm=100 mm.
Surface area =2πrh+2πr2=2π(20)(100)+2π(20)2=4000π+800π=4800π mm2.
With π≈3.14, 4800×3.14=15072 mm2. Given two significant figures in radius, result is 1.5×104 mm2.
(c) 18 km h−1=18×36001000=5 m s−1. In 1 s, distance =5 m.
(d) Relative density 11.3 means density =11.3 g cm−3.
In kg m−3: 11.3×1000=11300 kg m−3.
- 1×10−6 m3
- 1.5×104 mm2
- 5 m
- 11.3 g cm−3 or 11300 kg m−3.
The key idea is to convert units systematically using conversion factors, while respecting significant figures.
- 1 cm3=10−6 m3
- surface area =1.5×104 (mm)2
- 18 km/h=5 m/s
- density of lead =11.3 g/cm3=1.13×104 kg/m3.
The Concept: Unit Conversion with Significant Figures
Every measurement has a number and a unit. To convert between units, you multiply by a conversion factor — a fraction equal to 1 (e.g., 1 m/100 cm=1). The trick is to arrange the factor so the old unit cancels and the new unit remains.
But there’s a second layer: significant figures. The given numbers (1 cm, 2.0 cm, 10.0 cm, 18 km/h, 11.3) tell you how many digits are reliable. Your answer should not pretend to be more precise than the data. For example, “1 cm” has 1 significant figure, so 1 cm3 is exactly 1 cm3 — but when we convert, we keep the result as 10−6 m3 (which is exact, since 1 cm = 0.01 m exactly). For parts (b) and (d), the given numbers have 2 or 3 significant figures, so the answer must match.
Let’s go through each part.
(a) Volume of a cube of side 1 cm
Step 1: Volume in cm³
A cube of side 1 cm has volume V=(1 cm)3=1 cm3.
Step 2: Convert cm to m
We know 1 cm=10−2 m. So 1 cm3=(10−2 m)3=10−6 m3.
That’s it. The conversion is exact because the definition of “centi” is exact. No significant figure issue here — the answer is simply 10−6 m3.
When converting cubic units, cube the conversion factor: (conversion factor)3. For area, square it.
(b) Surface area of a solid cylinder: radius 2.0 cm, height 10.0 cm
Step 1: Formula for total surface area
A solid cylinder has two circular ends and a curved side.
Total surface area S=2πr2+2πrh=2πr(r+h).
Step 2: Plug in values (in cm)
r=2.0 cm, h=10.0 cm.
S=2π(2.0)(2.0+10.0)=2π(2.0)(12.0)=2π×24.0=48.0π cm2.
Step 3: Significant figures
Both 2.0 and 10.0 have 2 significant figures. So 48.0 has 3 digits, but the product 48.0π should be reported with 2 significant figures because the least precise input has 2.
48.0π≈150.796... — rounding to 2 significant figures gives 1.5×102 cm2.
Step 4: Convert cm² to mm²
1 cm=10 mm, so 1 cm2=(10 mm)2=100 mm2.
Thus S=1.5×102 cm2×100 cm2mm2=1.5×104 mm2.
A common mistake is to forget that area conversion uses the square of the length conversion factor. 1 cm2 is 100 mm2, not 10 mm2.
(c) Speed 18 km/h — distance covered in 1 second
Step 1: Convert km/h to m/s
The standard conversion: 1 km/h=3600 s1000 m=185 m/s.
So 18 km/h=18×185 m/s=5 m/s.
Step 2: Distance in 1 second
Distance = speed × time = 5 m/s×1 s=5 m.
The number 18 has 2 significant figures, but the conversion factor 185 is exact (since 1 km = 1000 m and 1 h = 3600 s are definitions). So the answer 5 m is exact in this context.
Memorize: to convert km/h to m/s, multiply by 185. To go the other way, multiply by 518.
(d) Relative density of lead = 11.3
Step 1: What is relative density?
Relative density (specific gravity) is the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of water at 4°C.
Density of water = 1 g/cm3 exactly (by definition of the gram).
So density of lead = 11.3×1 g/cm3=11.3 g/cm3.
Step 2: Convert to kg/m³
1 g/cm3=1000 kg/m3 because:
1 g=10−3 kg, 1 cm3=10−6 m3, so
1 cm31 g=10−6 m310−3 kg=103 kg/m3.
Thus 11.3 g/cm3=11.3×1000 kg/m3=11300 kg/m3.
Step 3: Significant figures
11.3 has 3 significant figures. So 11300 should be written as 1.13×104 kg/m3 to show 3 significant figures (11300 could be ambiguous — it might look like 3, 4, or 5 sig figs). Scientific notation removes the ambiguity.
Density of water: 1 g/cm3=1000 kg/m3
Relative density × density of water = density of substance.
- 10−6 m3
- 1.5×104 (mm)2
- 5 m
- 11.3 g/cm3 and 1.13×104 kg/m3
Method: Dimensional Analysis & Unit Conversion with Significant Figures
This method uses conversion factors (ratios equal to 1) to change units, while respecting the significant figures of the given data.
General Steps:
- Identify given value and its units.
- Choose conversion factors (e.g., 1 cm=10−2 m).
- Multiply so unwanted units cancel.
- Round final answer to the least number of significant figures in the original data.
(a) Volume of cube: 1 cm side → m3
- Step 1: Volume =(1 cm)3=1 cm3
- Step 2: 1 cm=10−2 m → (1 cm)3=(10−2 m)3
- Step 3: =10−6 m3
Answer: 10−6 m3
(1 significant figure, matching the side length)
(b) Surface area of cylinder: r=2.0 cm, h=10.0 cm → (mm)2
- Step 1: Surface area =2πrh+2πr2 =2π(2.0)(10.0)+2π(2.0)2 =40π+8π=48π cm2
- Step 2: 1 cm=10 mm → 1 cm2=100 mm2
- Step 3: 48π cm2=48π×100 mm2=4800π mm2
- Step 4: π≈3.14 → 4800×3.14=15072 mm2 Given data has 2 significant figures (2.0, 10.0) → round to 1.5×104 mm2
Answer: 1.5×104 mm2
(c) Speed 18 km h−1 → m in 1 s
- Step 1: 18 km h−1 means 18 km in 1 h
- Step 2: Convert km → m: 18 km=18×1000 m=18000 m Convert h → s: 1 h=3600 s
- Step 3: Distance in 1 s =3600 s18000 m=5 m
Answer: 5 m
(1 significant figure, matching 18)
(d) Relative density of lead = 11.3 → density in g cm−3 and kg m−3
- Step 1: Relative density = density of substance / density of water Density of water = 1 g cm−3=1000 kg m−3
- Step 2: In g cm−3: 11.3×1=11.3 g cm−3
- Step 3: In kg m−3: 11.3×1000=11300 kg m−3 (11.3 has 3 significant figures → keep 3)
Answer: 11.3 g cm−3 and 1.13×104 kg m−3
(a) Volume of a cube of side 1 cm → m³
Common mistakes:
-
Forgetting to cube the conversion factor
Students often write:
1 cm=0.01 m, so volume = 0.01 m3 ✗
Correct: volume = (0.01 m)3=1×10−6 m3 ✓
-
Mixing up cm³ and m³
They might recall 1 m3=106 cm3 but then invert it.
How to avoid:
Always write the conversion with the exponent outside the bracket:
1 cm=10−2 m
⇒ Volume =(1 cm)3=(10−2 m)3=10−6 m3
Final answer:
1×10−6 m3
(b) Surface area of a solid cylinder: radius 2.0 cm, height 10.0 cm → (mm)²
Common mistakes:
-
Using wrong formula
Some use only curved surface area (2πrh) and forget the two circular ends (2πr2).
Total surface area of a solid cylinder = 2πrh+2πr2=2πr(r+h).
-
Significant figures error
Radius is given as 2.0 cm (2 significant figures), height as 10.0 cm (3 significant figures).
Students often report too many digits in the final answer.
-
Unit conversion mistake
They convert cm to mm correctly (1 cm=10 mm) but forget to square the conversion factor:
1 cm2=(10 mm)2=100 mm2.
How to avoid:
-
Write the formula first:
A=2πr(r+h)
-
Plug in values in cm:
r=2.0 cm, h=10.0 cm
A=2π(2.0)(2.0+10.0)=2π(2.0)(12.0)=48π cm2
-
Convert to mm²:
1 cm2=100 mm2
A=48π×100=4800π mm2
-
Apply significant figures:
Least precise measurement is 2.0 (2 s.f.), so answer should have 2 significant figures.
4800π≈15079.6 mm2 → round to 1.5×104 mm2
Final answer:
1.5×104 mm2
(c) Speed 18 km h−1 → metres in 1 second
Common mistakes:
-
Using wrong conversion factor
1 km=1000 m, 1 h=3600 s
Some students multiply by 1000 and divide by 60 (thinking 1 h = 60 min only).
-
Forgetting to convert both units
They convert km to m but forget to convert hour to seconds.
How to avoid:
Use the standard conversion:
18 km h−1=18×3600 s1000 m=18×185=5 m s−1
So in 1 second, distance = 5 m.
Final answer:
5 m
(d) Relative density of lead = 11.3 → density in g cm−3 and kg m−3
Common mistakes:
-
Confusing relative density with density
Relative density has no units — it’s the ratio of density of substance to density of water.
Density of water = 1 g cm−3=1000 kg m−3.
-
Wrong conversion between g cm⁻³ and kg m⁻³
Common error: 1 g cm−3=100 kg m−3 ✗
Correct: 1 g cm−3=1000 kg m−3 ✓
How to avoid:
-
In g cm−3:
Density = relative density × density of water
=11.3×1 g cm−3=11.3 g cm−3
-
In kg m−3:
11.3 g cm−3=11.3×1000 kg m−3=11300 kg m−3
Significant figures note:
Relative density is given as 11.3 (3 s.f.), so both answers should have 3 s.f.
Final answers:
11.3 g cm−3 and 1.13×104 kg m−3
Summary of key pitfalls to avoid
| Mistake | How to avoid |
|---|---|
| Forgetting to cube/square unit conversions | Always apply exponent to the conversion factor |
| Using wrong formula | Write formula first, then substitute |
| Ignoring significant figures | Count s.f. in given data; round final answer |
| Mixing up relative density and density | Remember: relative density is unitless; multiply by water’s density |
| Incorrect conversion factors | Memorise: 1 km/h=185 m/s and 1 g/cm3=1000 kg/m3 |
Would you like practice problems on this exact set of conversions?
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].
- Length L has dimension [L]. So
[ρ]=[ML2T−3A−2]⋅[L][L2]=[ML2T−3A−2]⋅[L]=[ML3T−3A−2].
- Match with the options The result [ML3T−3A−2] is exactly option (B).
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that voltage involves charge, not current directly, leading to an incorrect exponent on T or A. Always break V into work per charge.
TipYou can also remember that resistance has dimensions [ML2T−3A−2] (like V/I), and since ρ=R×(length), the L exponent increases by 1, giving L3.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
- 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.
- Identify: ML2T−2 is the dimension of energy (e.g. E=21mv2⇒M(LT−1)2=ML2T−2). Stress would be ML−1T−2, momentum MLT−1 — neither matches.
So X has the dimensions of energy, option (B).
Watch outA frequent slip is mis-adding the length exponents: −23+1+25=2, not 0. Getting L0 wrongly leads to the "momentum" trap.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B): [X]=ML2T−2 (energy).
- 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
- 11H (protium): Z=1, A=1, N=0
- 12H (deuterium): Z=1, A=2, N=1
Same element / same Z, different A ⇒ ISOTOPES.
Step 3 — Assemble the match.
A (Isotopes)→iii,B (Isobars)→i,C (Isotones)→ii
That is A-iii, B-i, C-ii, which is option (D).
Option (C) (A-iii, B-ii, C-i) gets isotopes right but then wrongly calls the O18/F19 pair isobars — their mass numbers 18 and 19 clearly differ, so it fails immediately.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D) — A-iii, B-i, C-ii.
ANSWER: D
- 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].
-
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].
TipA quick check: electric flux can also be written as ΦE=∫E⋅dA, and in SI units its unit is V⋅m. Since volt =CJ=ATML2T−2=ML2T−3A−1, multiplying by meter gives ML3T−3A−1 — same result.
Watch outA common mistake is to confuse electric flux with electric field itself. Electric field has [MLT−3A−1], but flux includes an extra factor of area, so it gains L2, not L1.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D).
ANSWER: D
-
- 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:
[P]=[M1L2T−2]×[M2L4T−2]×[M−5]×[M2L−6T4]
(Note: [l]2=[M2L4T−2] and [G]−2=[M2L−6T4])
- Simplify exponents
- Mass: 1+2−5+2=0
- Length: 2+4−6=0
- Time: −2−2+4=0 So:
[P]=[M0L0T0]
Thus P is dimensionless.
TipA quick check: if you ever suspect a combination might be dimensionless, look for known dimensionless constants. Here, the structure resembles a ratio that cancels all base units — a common trick in dimensional analysis problems.
Watch outA common mistake is forgetting that angular momentum has dimensions [ML2T−1], not [ML2T−2] (which is energy). Mixing these up would give a wrong exponent for time.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- 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
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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.
- (D) Nm2kg−2 → exactly what we derived.
TipA quick sanity check: if G had kg2 in the numerator, doubling both masses would quadruple the force without changing G — but the law says force quadruples anyway, so G must stay constant. That’s only possible if the mass units cancel properly, which requires kg−2.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that r2 is in the denominator of the original law, so when solving for G it moves to the numerator. That’s why the answer has m2, not m−2.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D).
ANSWER: D
- 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Option (D): Work and Thrust
- Work = force × distance, dimension [ML2T−2].
- Thrust is [MLT−2].
- Neither matches the given formula. So (D) is wrong.
Watch outA common mistake is to confuse thrust (a force) with pressure (force per area). Thrust has one less power of length in the denominator, so its dimension is [MLT−2], not [ML−1T−2].
TipIf you ever forget the dimension of pressure, just recall the formula P=F/A. Since force is [MLT−2] and area is [L2], dividing gives [ML−1T−2]. Stress is defined the same way, so they share the same dimensions.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
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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
TipSanity check: the inductive time constant τ=L/R has dimension of time, so [L]=[R][T], hence [LR]=[R]2[T]=(ML2T−3A−2)2⋅T=M2L4T−6A−4⋅T=M2L4T−5A−4 — same result.
Watch outDon't confuse LR with L/R: the ratio L/R is dimensionless-in-time (it's a time constant), but the product LR carries an extra factor of [R]2.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A).
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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.
From L: b+3(−21)=0⇒b−23=0⇒b=23.
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Write the result.
So [T]=M−1/2L3/2G−1/2. That is exactly option (C).
TipA quick check: If G is fundamental, then time should have a negative exponent on G because G contains T−2 — to get T1 we need G−1/2. This immediately eliminates options (A) and (B) which have positive exponents on G.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that we are solving for T in terms of G, not the other way around. Students sometimes write [G]=M−1L3T−2 and then try to match it to the given forms directly, instead of inverting the relation.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- 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 Energy has dimensions [ML2T−2]. Energy density is energy per unit volume, so divide by volume [L3]:
[L3][ML2T−2]=[ML−1T−2]
This matches exactly. Energy density is also the same as pressure (in fact, pressure and energy density share the same dimensions). So (D) is correct.
TipA quick shortcut: Pressure and energy density always have the same dimensions. If you see [ML−1T−2], it could be pressure, stress, or energy density. Here only energy density appears among the options.
Watch outA common mistake is to confuse "energy density" with "energy" itself. Energy has [L2] in the numerator, but energy density has [L−1] because volume divides it.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D).
ANSWER: D
- 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.
(Energy is J, power Js−1, linear momentum kgms−1 — none equal J⋅s.)
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C) — Angular momentum
- 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.
-
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
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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.
- For time T: −2=−2, automatically satisfied.
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Conclusion
The only consistent value is n=1.
TipYou could also notice that P=ρv2 is reminiscent of the dynamic pressure formula in fluid mechanics (P=21ρv2), which differs only by a dimensionless constant. That’s a quick sanity check: the exponent on density must be 1.
Watch outA common mistake is to treat v2 as having dimensions of L2T−2 but forget that v itself is LT−1, so v2 is L2T−2. Also, don’t confuse pressure with energy density — they share dimensions, but here the structure is different.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
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