Name: An Introduction to Dimensional Analysis
Uploaded: 2019-07-19
Duration: 7 min 47 s
Description: How can we check the dimensional consistency of an equation or generate a new equation from dependable parameters? It is through dimensional analysis. Let’s...

Question

What are the uses of dimensional analysis?

Accepted Answer

All the physical quantities can be expressed in terms of base quantities. When a quantity is expressed in terms of base quantities, it is expressed in the exponents of base quantities. These exponents are called the dimensions of the quantity in that base. Following are the uses of analysis on the basis of these dimensions:

1. It is used to check the correctness of physical relation. This is based on the principle of homogeneity of dimensions in an equation. If the dimensions of all the terms are not the same, then the equation must be wrong.

2. It is used to convert the value of a physical quantity from one system to another. Dimensions can be useful in finding the conversion factor for the unit of a derived physical quantity from one system to the other.

3. It is used to derive a relation between various physical quantities. If one knows the quantities on which a given physical quantity depends, then dimensional analysis can be used to deduce a relation between them.

What are the uses of dimensional analysis?

Important Questions on Units and Measurements

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