UNITS AND MEASUREMENTS

2. What are physical quantities? Distinguish between

fundamental and derived quantities.
Physical quantities. All those quantities which can be
measured directly or indirectly and in terms of which the
laws of physics can be expressed are calledphysical quantities.
For example, length, mass, temperature, speed, force,
electric current, etc. The physical quantities are the
building blocks of physics in terms of which the basic
laws of physics can be expressed in mathematical
forms.
Physical quantities are of two types - fundamental
and derived.
(i) Fundamental quantities. The physical quantities
which can be treated as independent of other physical
quantities and are not usually defined in terms of other
physical quantities are called fundamental quantities. To
give a consistent and unambiguous description to all
physical quantities, we need a minimum of seven
fundamental or base quantities. These are mass,
length, time, electric current, temperature, luminous
intensity and amount of substance.
(ii) Derived quantities. The physical quantities whose
defining operations are based on other physical quantities are
called derived quantities. All physical quantities other
than the seven base quantities are derived quantities.
For example, velocity, acceleration, force, momentum,
etc.

2.3 •. THE MEASURING PROCESS

3. What is meant by the term measurement of a
physical quantity? How is the result of measurement of
a physical quantity expressed ?
Measurement. The measurement of a physical
quantity is the process of comparing this quantity with
a standard amount of the physical quantity of the same
kind, called its unit.
To express the measurement of a physical quantity,
we need to know two things :
(i) The unit in which the quantity is measured.
(ii) The numerical value or the magnitude of the 6. What are fundamental and derived units ? Give
quantity i.e., the number of times that unit is some examples.
contained in the given physical quantity. Fundamental units. The physical units which can
.. Measure of a physical quantity neither be derived from one another, nor they can befurther
=Numerical value of the physical quantity resolved into more simpler units are called fundamental
x size of the unit units. The units of fundamental quantities such as
mass, length, etc. are fundamental units.
or Q=nu
Let length of a room = 5 m = 500 em. Derived units. All the other physical units which can
be expressed in terms oj the fundamental units are called
Clearly, the smaller the size of the .uiit, the larger is
derived units. Let us consider the unit of speed.
the numerical value associated with the physical
quantity. Distance travelled
Spee d =
Time taken
Thus the numerical value (n) is inversely proportional to
the size (u) of the unit. Unit of distance
1 .. Unit of speed
n a: - or nu = constant. Unit of time
u
metre -1
If n1 and 11z are numerical values for a physical =---=ms
second .
quantity Q corresponding to the units u1 and "L., then
Thus the unit of speed (ms - 1) is a derived unit as it
Q= n1 u1 = n2 "L. ••• (2.1) has been expressed in the fundamental units of length
and time.

2.6 •. SYSTEMS OF UNITS

4. What is a physical unit ? 7. What is a system 0/ units ? Mention the various
types of systems of units.
Physical unit. The standard amount of a physical System of units. A complete set of units which is used
quantity chosen to measure the physical quantity of the same to measure all kinds offundamental and derived quantities is
kind is called a physical unit. called a system of units.
 Some of the commonly used systems of units are as
follows:
(i) cgs system. It was set up in France. It is based on
centimetre, gram and second as the fundamental units of
length, mass and time respectively.
(ii) fps system. It is a British system based on foot,
pound and second as the fundamental units of length,
mass and time respectively.
(iii) mks system. It is also a French system based on
metre, kilogram and second as the fundamental units of
length, mass and time respectively.
(iv) 51: The international system of units. SI is the
abbreviation for "Systeme Internationale d' Unites",
which is French equivalent for international system of
units. It is a modernised and extended form of the
metric systems like cgs and mks systems. This system
was adopted by eleventh General Conference of
Weights and Measures in 1960. It covers all branches of
science and technology. It is based on the following
seven basic units and two supplementary units.

Lable 2.1 Basic 51 quantities and units

S. Basic physical Symbol

Basic unit
No. auantity
l. Length metre m
2. Mass kilogram kg
3. Time second s
4. Temperature kelvin K
5. Electric current ampere A
6. Luminous intensity candela cd
7. Quantity of matter mole mol
-
Lable 2.2 Supplementary 51 units
S. Supplementary Symbol
Basic unit
No. auantity
l. Plane angle radian rad
2. Solid angle steradian sr
 Significant figures: it tells us the number of digits in a measured value, we are
confident of.
 More the significant figures → more accurate measurement
 Rules for calculating significant figures:
(1) All none zero digits are significant.
Ex. 1224 → 4 sf
243 → 3 sf
1.212 → 4 sf
(2) Trapped zeros (zeros between two non-zero digits) are significant.
Ex. 1.004 → 4 sf
20.3 → 3 sf
(3) Initial zeros/leading zeros are never significant.
Ex. 0.001 → 1sf
0.312 → 3 sf
0.032 → 2 sf
0.0204 → 3 sf
(4) Ending zeros/trailing zeros are significant if they appear after decimal.
Ex. 2.00 → 3 sf
3.120 → 4 sf
0.003020 → 4 sf
200 → 1 sf
131000 → 3sf
1310.00 → 6 sf
(5) Order of magnitude is never significant.
Ex. 2.1 × 103 → 2 sf
2.010 × 106 → 4 sf
 200  2 × 103
 
2 sf 2 sf
1400  1.4 × 103
 
2 sf 2 sf
(6) Pure numbers or constants have infinite significant figures.
Ex. Perimeter of square = 4a

infinite sf
Area of cube = 6a2

infinite sf
Speed of light, c = 3 × 108 m/s → infinite sf
Refractive index of water, nw = 1.33 → infinite sf
(7) While changing units number of significant figures remains same.
Ex. 1.5 m  150 cm
 
2 sf 2 sf
2.0 km  2.0 × 103 km
 
2 sf 2 sf
2.20 DIMENSIONS OF A PHYSICAL QUANTITY
40. What do you mean by seven dimensions of the
world?
Seven dimensions of the world. All the derived
physical quantities can be expressed in terms of some
[Link] of the seven fundamental or base
quantities. We call these fundamental quantities as the
seven dimensions of the world, which are denoted with
square brackets [ ].

Dimension of length = [L]

Dimension of mass = [M]
Dimension of time = [T]
Dimension of electric current = [A]
Dimension of thermodynamic temperature = [K]
Dimension of luminous intensity = [cd]
Dimension of amount of substance = [mol]

41. What do you mean by dimensions of a physical

quantity? Explain with the help of an example.
Dimensions of a physical quantity. The dimensions
of a physical quantity are the powers (or exponents) to which
the fundamental quantities must be raised to represent that
quantity completely,
For example,
. Mass Mass
Density = ---
Volume Lengthx breadth x height
 Dimensions of density Examples: The dimensional formula of the volume
[M] = [ML-3]= [M1L-3To] is [MOL3p]and that of momentum is [MLr 1].
[L] [L] [L] Dimensional The equation obtained by
equation.
Hence the dimensions of density are T in mass, ,- 3' equating a physical quantity with its dimensional formula is
in length and '0' in time. called the di tensional equation of the given physical quantity.
2.21 DIMENSIONAL FORMULAE AND Examples: The dimensional equation of force is
DIMENSIONAL EQUATIONS [Force]= [MLr2]
42.c:What is meant by dimensional formula and The dimensional equation for pressure is
dimensional equation ? Give examples.
[Pressure] = [ML-1r2]
Dimensional formula. The expression which shows
how and which of the fundamental quantities represent the Dimensional formuale and 51 units of some
dimensions of a physical quantity is called the dimensional physical quantities are given in table 2.8.
formula of the given physical quantity.

l,able 2.8 Dimension~1 Formulae and SI units oJ some physical quantities

"S. Relation with other

Physica~ Quantity Dimf:isional formula SI unit
No. quantities
.~ .......
. ~:. . . ,l'
£ _ •. -'"'.r.-" ,
C;
1. L2 = [MOL2TO] m2
Area Length x breadth Lx L =
.
2. Volume Length x breadth x height Lx L xL = lMOL3TO] m3
Mass
3. Density --- ~ = [ML-3To] kgm-3
Volume L

4. Speed or velocity Distance .!:: = [MOLT-I] ms-I

Time T
Change in velocity ms-2
5. Acceleration Lrl = LT-2 = [MoLr2]
Time T

6. Momentum Mass x velocity M xLT-I = [MLrl] kg ms-1

7. Force' Mass x acceleration M xLr2 = [MLr2] N

8. Work Force x distance MLr2 xL = [ML2r2] J

9. Energy Amount of work [ML2r2] J
"
Work
-- ML2r2
___ = [ML2r3]
10. Power Time W
T

11. Pressure Force

-- ML1r2
Area
--2 - = [ML-Ir2] Pa or Nm-2
L
12. Moment of force or torque Force x .L, distance MLr2 xL = [ML2r2] Nm
Force x (distancej? MLr2L2
13. Gravitational constant 'G' = [M-1L3r2] Nm2kg-2
Mass x mass MxM
~ -
14. Impulse of a force Force » time MLr2 xT = [MLrl] ~ Ns
Force 2
15. Stress -- MLr = [ML-Ir2] Nm-2
Area L2
.-
16. Strain Change in dimension [MOLOTO](dimensionless) -
Original dimension
Stress ML-1r2
17. Coefficient of elasticity --
Strain
= [ML-1r2] Nm-2
1
 S. Relation with other
Physical Quantity Dimensional formula SI unit
No. quantities
18. Surface tension Force 2 Nm-1
--- ML r = MT-2 = [MLOr2]
Length L
19. Surface energy Work ML2r2 Jm-2
-- --2- = MT-2 = [MLOr2]
Area L --

20. Coefficient of viscosity Force x distance MLT-2 xL Nm-2 s

= [ML-1r1]
Ar~ x velocity L2 xLT-1 or Pa s
-
21. Angle Arc rad
--- ~ = 1= [MOLoTo] (dimensionless)
Radius L.
-

22. Angular velocity Angle ..!. = rl = [MoLorl] rad s-l

Time T
Angular acceleration Angular velocity rad s" 2
23. rl = r2 = [MoLor2]
Time T
24. Moment of inertia . - Mass x (distancer' ML2 = [ML2TO] kgm2

25. Radius of gyration Distance L = [MoLTo] m '{

26. Angular momentum Mass x velocity x radius M x LT -I x L = [ML2T -1] kg m2s-I

27. T-ratios Length

~ = 1= [MOLOTO](dimensionless) -
(sin e, cos e, tan 8) Length L

28. Time period Time T=[MOLOT] s

29. Frequency 1 ..!. = rl = [MoLorl) s-l or Hz

Time period T

30. Planck's constant 'h' E

-
Energy ML2r2
___ = [ML2T-1) Js
=
v Frequency T-I

31. Relative density Density of substance

ML -: = 1= [MoLoTo] -
Density of water at 4°C ML-
(dimensionless)

32. Velocity gradient Velocity s-l

Lrl = rl = [MOLOT-1)
Distance L

33. Pressure gradient Pressure ML-1T-2 Pam-1

= [ML-2T-2]
Distance L
Force constant Force 2 Nm-1
34. MLr =MT-2 = [MLor2]
Displacement L
no..
.
... . 'i '; .

35. Heat or enthalpy Energy [ML2r2] J

36. Specific heat Heat ML2 T-2 J kg-1 K-1
='[MOL2T -2K-I]
Mass x Temperature M·K

37. Latent heat Heat ML2T-2 J kg-1

-- = [MOL2T-2]
Mass M

38. Thermal conductivity Heat x distance ML2 T-2. L Js-1m-1K-1

= [MLT-3 K-1]
Area x temp. x time L2·K·T

39. Entropy Heat ML2r2 = [ML2T-2K-1]

___ JK-1
Temperature K

40. Universal gas constant PV ML-1 T-2L3 J mol-1 K-I

-
nT mol-K
= [ML2T-2K-1 mol-I]
 S. Relation with other
Physical Quantity Dimensional formula SI unit
No. quantities
41. Boltzmann's constant Energy ML2r2 . JK-1 ,
= [ML2T -2 K-1]
Temperature K

42. Stefan's constant Energy ML2 T-2 Js-1 m" 2 K-4

= [MLOT-3 K-4]
Area x time x (temp.j'' e·T·K4
--

43. Solar constant Energy ML2 T-2 Js-1m-2

= [MLo r3]
Area x time L2·T
- - -
~T-2
44. Mechanical equivalent J= W = [MoLoTo] -
of heat H ML2 T-2
(dimensionless)
. :;
. ( -: :- "
.8 -: • .••,.:> ,'d}: .•..- .,.';.:,.!"i':··f;;!~C~,f<.,
...''1\~:,_.
45. Electric charge Time ;Current T, A = [MOLOTA] C (coulomb)

46. Electrical potential Work ML2 T-2 V (volt)

--- = [ML2T -3A -I]
Charge TA
-
47. Resistance Potential difference ML2T-3A -I n(ohm)
= [ML2T -3A -2]
Current A
48. Capacitance Charge TA = [M-1L-2T4A2] F (farad)
Potential difference ML2 T-3i\-1

49. Inductance EMF ML2T-3A -1 H (henry)

= [ML2T -2A -2]
Current / time AT 1

50. Permittivity of free space I: = ql q2 AT·AT A 2c2 N-1m- 2

° Fr
2 MLT 2e
= [M-1C3T4A2]
-
51. Relative permittivity or e, or 1C = 1:0 a pure ratio = [MoLoTo] -
dielectric constant I: (dimensionless) .'
-
52. Intensity of electric field E= £. = Force
MLr
2
= [MLT-3A-1] NC10r
q Charge AT Vm-I

53. Conductance C=..! 1 = [M-1L-2T3A2] n-I

R ML2 T 3A 2 or mho

54. Specific resistance or RA ML2 T -3A -2 . L2 nm

p=- [ML 3T -3 A-2]
resistivity 1 L

55. Specific conductance or 1 [~IL-3T3 A2] n-Im-I

0'=-
conductivity p

56. Electric dipole moment - q x 21 AT.L=[MoLTA] Cm

m. . . • ,
','
Magnetic field F 2
57. B=-'-- ML r = [MLoT -2A-I] T (tesla)
qv sin e I
AT·Lr ·1 :-

58. Magnetic flux $=BA MT-2A-1. L2 = [ML2 r2A-I] Wb(weber)

Permeability of free space 4rrr.F 2
59. L·MLr ~ [MLT-2A -2]
1-10 =ITl 2
1 2 A ·L
_.
60. Magnetic moment Current x area A, L2 = [MoeTo A] Am2
Magnetic moment
'-
61. Pole strength AL2 = [MoLToA] Am
Magnetic length L
 (iv) Coefficient of viscosity,
Force Force Distance
'11= =--x---
. Areax velocity gradient Area Velocity
2
[ ]= MLr ,L = (ML-tT-t],
'11 L2, LT-1

(v) Surface tension,

Force
cr=
Length
MLT-2
[cr]= L' [Mr2).

(vi) Planck's constant,

h= Energy
Frequency
2 2
[h] = ML T- = [ML2rl].
r1
EX4MPLE 29. Deduce the dimensional formulae of the
following physical quantities:
~
(i) Heat (ii) Specific heat (iii) Latent heat
(iv) Gas constant
(v) Boltzmann's constant
(vi) Coefficient of thermal conductivity
(vii) Mechanical equivalent of heat.
Solution. (i) Heat = Energy'

.. [Heat] = [ML2r2],

") Spec ifi c h eat = ------,-. Heat

(II ----
EX.4MPLE 28. Deduce the dimensional formulae for the Massx temperature
following physical quantities:
:. [Specific heat] =
ML2r-2 = [L2r2K-1].
(i) Gravitational constant (ii) Power
M,K
(iii) Young's modul~~ (iv) Coefficient of viscosity
(v) Surface tension (vi) Planck's constant. ("')
III L atent h eat = --
Heat
Mass
Solution. (I) According to Newton's law of gravitation,
ML2r2
F=G~~ " [Latent heat] = [L2T-2] ,
? M
(iv) PV = nRT
.. [G] = [F][?]
R = PV = Force x volume
[~][~] or
nT
molx area x temp.
Work Forcex Distance
(ii) P ower=-- 2 3
Time Time [R] = MLT- , L
mol. L2 ,K
[P ower ] = ML r:"·, L = [ML2 T-3] ,
T = [ML2T-2K-1mol-1]"
(iii) Young's modulus, (v) Boltzmann's constant, _
Y = Longitudmal stress = F / A =.£ , J..- k = Heat
Longitudinal strain Lll/ 1 A Lll Temperature
2
[Y] = MLr , L = [ML-IT-2], ML2T-2
.. L2. L [k] = = [ML2r 2K-1].
K
 (vi) Coefficient of thermal
conductivity, EXA1"lPI.E 33. If the velocity of light c, acceleration due to
Heat x distance gravity g and atmospheric pressure p are the fundamental
K=---------------------------- quantities, find the dimensions of length.
Areax timex temperature difference
Solution. We have,
[K] = ~2r2. L =[MLT-3K-1]
L . T.K c=LT-l, g=LT-2, p=ML-l T-2
(vii) Joule's mechanical
J= Work
equivalent of heat,
.
2 2
L r
[Length] = L= --2-=
LT"
(Lrl)2
L'I"
2 = -
[?]
g
.
Heat
22
[ J] = ML r = 1 = [MoLoTo].
ML T-2
2 .

ExAMPLE 30. Find the dimensional formulae of (i) charge

(iiJ potential (iii) resistance (iv) capacitance.
Solution. (i) Charge, q = Current x time
[q] = [AT].
(ii) Potential,
V = Work
Charge
2T-2
[V] = ML = [ML~A-lr3].
AT
(iii) Resistance,
R = Potential difference
Current
ML 2A-lr3
____ = [ML2A -2T -3].
A
(iv) Capacitance,
C = Charge
Potential
[C] = AT = [M-1L-2A2T4]
ML2A-1r3
EX.4lI1PLE 31. Taking velocity, time and force as the
fundamental quantities; find the dimensions of mass.
Solution. Force = Mass x Acceleration
Velocity
= M ass x -----!-
Time
Force x Time
or Mass=-----
Velocity
[Mass] = [FTV-1].

EY.4lIfPLE 32. If density p, acceleration due to gravity g and

frequency v are the basicquantities,find the dimensions offorce.
Solution. Wehavep=ML-3, g=Lr2, v=rl
Solving for M, L and T in terms of p, g and v, we get
M = ply - 6~ L = gv - 2, T = v-I

[Force] = MLT - 2 = pg3v-6 . gv- 2. v2

= [pg 4 v -6] .
 Let M i- L1 and T1be the sizes of fundamental units of EXAMPLE 35' The value G in CG5 system is 6.67 x 10- 8
mass, length and time in one system; and M2, L2, T2be dyne ~ g- 2. Calculate the value in 51 units.
corresponding units in another system. If the dimen-
sional formula of quantity Q be Ma l!' r-. then Solution. As F = G ~ "2
~ =Mt L~T/
.. G=--
Fr 2
a Lb 1:2c
and ~ = Mi 2 ~"2
[aM2 L 2b 1:c] 2 2
.. n1 [Ml a Llb T1c] = ~ 2 . [G]= MLr . L = 111L3T-2
MM
or .. a = - I, b = 3, c = - 2
CGS units SI units
This equation can be used to find the numerical
11 = 6.67 x 10- 8 ~ =?
value in the second or new system of units.
M1=lg M2 = 1 kg = 1000 g
Example. Let us convert one joule .into erg.
L] = 1cm L2 = 1m = 100 em
Joule is 51 unit of energy and erg is the CG5 unit of
energy. Dimensional formula of energy is ML2T - 2. TI = Is T2 = Is
.. a=l, b=Z, c=-2.
SI CGS
M1 = 1 kg = 1000 g ~=lg
LI = 1 m = 100 em L2 =1 em
TI = Is T2 = 1 s
~ = 1 (joule) ~ = ?(erg) = 6.67 x 10- 11
Hence in SI units,

~ =~ [~:J [~:Ja b [~:] c

G= 6.67x 10-11Nm2kg-2•

= 1 [10100
3
r r [ir
[1~0

4 7
2
ExAMPLE

.
36. Find the value of 60 J per min on a system
that has 100 g, 100 cm and 1 min as the base units.

Solution. P
joule
= 60 ~- =
60 joule
= 1 watt
= 1 x 10 x 10 = 10 min 60s
1 joule = 107 erg. which is the SI unit of power.

Now = ML2T-3
[Power]
.'. a = I, b = 2 , c = - 3

SI New System
11 = 1 ~ =?
M, = lkg = 1000g M2 = 100g

LI = 1m = 100 em L2 = 100 em
TI = Is T2 = 1 min = 60 s

"' = "t [~:r[~:n

~:r
= 1 [1000] 1 [100] 2 [~] - 3
100 100 60

= 2.16 x 106
.. 60 J min-1 ':"2.16x 106 new units of power.
EXi1MPLE 37. In CGS system, the value of Stefan's constant :-: HINTS
is c = 5.67 x 10- 5 erg s- 1 em' 2 K- 4. Find its value in SI
3. [Density] = M1L-3
units. Given 1 J = 107 erg.
Solution. In CGS system, c = 5.67 x 10- 5 erg
~ = ~ [~:J [~:r3

r
s-lcm- 2K- 4. The SI unit of work is joule. We have,
1 erg = 10- 7 J and 1 em = 10- 2 m 3
.,.--" -
:. The value of Stefan's constant in SI units is = 13.6[ 11;gJ [~:
c = 5.67 x 10- 5[10-7 Jl s-l [10- 2mr 2 :rc- 4
= 5,67 x 10- 5 x 10- 7 x 104 Js-1m -2 :rc-4 = 13.6[~] [ 1em ]-3= 13.6 x 103
1000g 100em
= 5.67x 10-8 Js-1m -2K-4•
.. 13.6g em - 3 = 13.6 x 103 kgm - 3 •
EXAll-fPLE 38. If the unit offorce is 1 kN, unit of length 1 km
and the unit of time is 100 s, what will be the unit of mass? 4. [Surface Tension] = M1T-2
2 2 2
ti M MLT- . T FT
So Iu Ion. = -- _ 72[~]1 [~]-2
L L ~ - lkg Is
1000 N>.<104 s2 = 104 Ns2
1000m
-2 2
m = 72 [~]1
1000g
[~]-2
Is
= 0.072
= 104 kg m s . s = 104 kg.
m .. 72dyne em-I = 0.072 Nm-1•
6. [Pressure] = MIL-lr2
:-: PROBLEMS F'OR PRACTICE

1. Convert one dyne into newton. [Himachal 091 ~=106[/;gJ[~:rl[~:r2 =105

(Ans. 10-5 newton)
.. 106 dyne em - 2 = 105 Nm -2.
2. If the value of universal gravitational constant in SI
is 6.6 x 10-11Nm2kg-2, then find its value in CGS 7. o= 5.67x10-8Js-1m-2K-4
system. [Himachal 091
= 5.67 x 10- 8 x 107 erg s-1 (100 emf 2 K- 4
(Ans. 6.6 x 10-8 dyne em 2g-2)
= 5.67 x 10-5 erg s-l em" 2 K" 4.
3. The density of mercury is 13.6 g em - 3 in CGS
system. Find its value in SI units.
(Ans. 13.6x 103 kg m - 3)
4. The surface tension of water is 72 dyne em - 1.
Express it in SI units. (Ans. 0.072 Nm -1)
5. An electric bulb-has a power of 500 W. EXfress it in
CGS units. (Ans. 5 x 10 erg s-1)
6. If the value of atmospheric pressure is 106 dyne
em - 2, find its value in SI units. (Ans. 105 Nm - 2)
7. In SI units, the value of Stefan's constant is
cr=5.67x10-8 Js-1 m-2 K-4. Find its value in
CGS system. (Ans. 5.67 x 10- 5 erg s-1 em - 2 K- 4)
2.25 CHECKING THE DIMENSIONAL Solution. The dimensions of the various terms are
CONSISTENCY OF EQUATIONS [x] = [L]
46. State the principle of homogeneity of dimensions. [xo] = [L]
What is its basis? [vot] = [Lr1] [T]~ [L]
Principle of homogeneity of dimensions. According [~at2] = [Lr2] [T 2]= [L]
to this principle, a physical equation will be dimensionally
Since the dimensions of all the terms are same,
correct if the dimensions of all the terms occurring on both
hence the given equation is dimensionally correct.
sides of the equation are the same. This principle is based
on the fact that only the physical quantities of the same EXAMPLE 40. Check whether thefollowing equation is dimen-

kind can be added, subtracted or compared. Thus, sionally correct.

velocity can be added to velocity but not to force. ~ mv2 = mgh. [NCERT, Himachal 06C]
47. How can we check the dimensional correctness of
a physical equation? Explain it with a suitable example.
Solution. [~ mv2] = [M] [LT" 1 = [ML2r 2] f
To check the dimensional correctness of a physical [mgh] = [M][Lr2][L] = [ML2 r2]
equation. For this purpose we make use of the principle Dimensions of LHS = Dimensions of RHS
of homogeneity of dimensions. If the dimensions of all Hence the given equation is dimensionally correct.
the terms on the two sides of the equation are same,
then the equation is dimensionally correct. RHMPU' 4'. Check the correctness of the equation,
F5 = 1 mv2 _1 mu2
Example. Let us check the dimensional accuracy of 2 2
the equation of motion, where F is the force acting on a body of mass m and 5 is the
distance moved by the body when its velocity changes from u
s = ut + ~ at2
2 to v. [Delhi 08]

Dimensions of different terms are Solution.

[s] = [L] L= ML2r2
[F5] = MLr2.
[ut] = [Lr 1] [T] = [L 1 [~mv2] = M[Lr1]2 = ML2r2
[~mu2] = M[Lr1f = ML2r2
[~at2 ] = [Lr2] [T2]= [L]
Since dimensions of all the terms in the given equation
As all the terms on both sides of the equations have are same, hence the given equation is dimensionally
the same dimensions, so the given equation is dimen- correct.
sionally correct. [Link]>U·; 42. Check the correctness of the relation r = la,
where 't is the torque acting on a body, 1 is the moment of
inertia and a is angular acceleration. [Punjab 1990]
A' A dimensionally correct equation need not be actually Solution. Given t = la
a correct equation, but a dimensionally inconsistent
equation must be wrong. The equation of motion : As torque, t = Force x distance
s = ut + at2 is dimensionally correct but numerically it ['t] = MLr2. L= Me r2
is wrong.
Moment of inertia,
1 = Mass x distance/
2
[l] = ML
Angular acceleration,
Angle
a = ---"---;:-
(Timel

[a]=~=T-2
T2
[Link]>l.E 39.
[Ia] = ML2r2
which starts from the position Xo with initial velocity Voand
has uniform acceleration a, is given by x = Xo + vot + ~ at2 . .'. Dimensions of LHS = Dimensions of RHS
Check the dimensionally consistency of this eouation. Hence the given equation is dimensionally correct.
 ExAMPLE 43. Check the dimensional consistency of the
following equations : ._ (iv) RHS =..!. rITI =! [ ML r
2
] 1/2,
"-" h
[I] V(r;;] L ML-1
(i) de-Broglie wavelength, A = -
mv =!,LT-1=r1
(/'1') Escape ve IOCI'ty ,v = lR' GM
[Himachal 05]
L
[LHS] = [v]= r'.
Solution. (i) Given A"; ~ Hence the relation is correct.
mv [Link] 45. By the method of dimensions, test the accuracy
As wavelength is a distance, mgl3
of the equation: 0= 3
.. [A] =L 4bd Y
h ] Planck's constant where 0 is the depression produced in the middle of a bar of
A Iso [ - = -------
mv Mass x velocity length I, breadth b and depth d, when it is loaded in the
middle with mass m. Y is the Young's modulus of the
.: Dimensions of LHS = Dimensions of RHS
material of the bar.
Hence the given equation is dimensionally consistent.

(")
II G'iven v = l GM
-R-
Solution. [LHS] = [0] = depression = L
3
[RHS] = [ mg 1 ]
4bd3 Y

r
[v]=LT-1
1 1 Mass x acceleration x length '

[2~MJ2 = [M-
1L3
Z- 2
,M = [L2 T- 2]~ = LT-1 4 x breadth x depth ' x Young's modulus
3
M. Lr2. L =L
': Dimensions of LHS = Dimensions of RHS L. L3 . ML-1 r2
Hence the equation is dimensionally correct. .. [LHS] = [RHS]. Hence the relation is correct.
EXA.1UPLE 44. Check by the method of dimensions whether 46. Find the dimensions of a/b in the equation:
EX"lL'lrIPU,
the following equations are correct:
(i) E = m? (ii) T = 21t H [Delhi 98]
F = a../X + bt2, where F isforce, x is distance and t is time.
Solution. [a../X] = [F]
2
(iii) v = f-!,where v = velocity of sound,
.. [a] = l£l
[../X]
= MLr
L1/2
=ML!/2 r2

[bt2]=[F]
P = pressure and p = density of medium, 2

2\ l,
[b]=l£l=MLT- =MLT-4
(iv) v = where _v = frequency 'of vibration, [t2] T2

I= length of the string, T = tension in the string and ML1/2 r2

[a/b]= =L-1/2T2•
m = mass per unit length, MLr4

Solution.
(i) [[Link]] = [E]= Energy = ML2r2
[[Link]] = [m?J = M[Lr1]2 = ML2r2
Hence the relation is correct.

(ii) [RHS] =V f~~

illI = [L 1-"
r' 1/2
~ =T

[LHS] = [T] = T .
Hence the relation is correct.
1
(iii) [RHS] = lID
=[ ML- !-2 ]1/2 = Lr1
VfPi
ML 3 .
[LHS] = [v] = Lr1.
Hence the relation is correct.
2.26 DEDUCING RELATION AMONG THE
PHYSICAL QUANTITIES
48. How can the method of dimensions be used to
deduce a relation among the physical quantities? Explain
it with the help of a suitable example.
To derive the relationshiji among physical
quantities. By making use of the homogeneity of
dimensions, we can derive an expression for a physical
quantity if we know the various factors on which it
depends.
Example. Let us derive an expression for the
centripetal force F acting on a particle ot mass m
moving with velocity v in a circle of radius r.
Let F ex nf vb rC or F =K nf vb rC ••• (1)
where K is a dimensionless constant. Writing the dimen-
sions of various quantities in equation (1); we get

[MLr2l = 1[Mt[LT-1t[Lt
or M1L1T-2= MaLb+cT-b.
Comparing the dimensions of similar quantities on
both sides, we get
a=l
b+c=l or c=1-b=1-2 =-1·
-2 =- b or b=2
From equation (I), we get
2 -1 mv2
F= Kmv r =K--
r
This is the required expression for the centripetal
force.
 Equating the powers of M, L and T on both sides,
b=O, a-3b+c=1, -2c=-1
On solving, a=-
1
2'
b= ° r
c =-
2
1

1 1

.,.. v=KA2pOg2=KJfi.

EXA.'HPLE 54. Assuming that the mass M of the largest

stone that can be moved by a flowing river depends upon 'u'
the velocity, 'p' the density of water and on 'g', the accele-
[Link] {;2. Consider a simple pendulum, having a bob ration due to gravity. Show that M varies with the sixth
attached to a string, that oscillates under the action of the power of the velocity of flow.
force of gravity. Suppose that the period of oscillation of the Solution. Let M = Kva pb gC ... (i)
simple pendulum depends on (i) mass m of the bob (ii) length
where K = a dimensionless constant.
I of the pendulum and (iii) acceleration due to gravity g at
the place. Derive the expression for its time period using Dimensions of the various quantities are:
method of dimensions. [NCERTI [M]=M, [v]=LT-1, [p]=ML-3, [g]=LT-2
Solution. Let us assume that T ex: rrf lb gC Substituting these dimensions in equation (i), we get
or T = Krrf lb gC ... (i) [M] = [Lrl]a [ML-3]b[Lr2 r
where K is a dimensionless constant. M1LoTo = Mb La -3b+c T"" -2c

The dimensions of various quantities are Equating the powers of M, L and T, we get
[T]=T, [m]=M, [1]=L, [g]=LT-2 b=l, a-3b+c=0, -a-2c=0
Substituting these dimensions in eqn. (I), we get On solving, a =6, b = 1, c =-3
T=[Mt [Lt [LT-2 r M = Kv6 pI g-3

or MOLoTI= M" Lb+ -r - 2c Hence M ex: v6.

Equating the exponents of M, L and T on both EXAMPLE 55. The velocity of sound waves 'u' through a
sides, we get 1 medium may be assumed to depend on :
a=O, b+c=O, -2c=1 (i) the density of the medium 'd' and
1 (ii) the modulus of elasticity 'E'.
On solving, a =0, b =~, c=--
2 Deduce by the method of dimensions the formula for the
velocity of sound. Take dimensional constant K = l.
T = Kmo/l/2g-1/2 =K IT Solution. Let the velocity of sound waves be given by
-. Vg
From experiments,K =21t.
v = Kd a Eb ... (i)

Therefore T = 21t if . where K = a dimensionless

Dimensions of the various quantities are
constant.

[v] = LT - 1, [d] = ML- 3 ,-

EXA1UPl£ 53. The velocity 'o' of water waves depends on 2
the wavelength 'A', density of water 'p' and the acceleration [E]= stre~s = force. MLr =ML-1r2
due to gravity 's: Deduce by the method of dimensions the stram area x stram L2 • 1
relationship between these quantities. [Central Schools 081 Substituting these dimensions in equation (I), we get
Solution. Let v = K J!pbl ... (i) [Lrl] = [ML-3]a [ML-1r2t
where K = a dimensionless constant. or ~Llrl = Ma +b L-3a -b T-2b

Dimensions of the various quantities are Equating the dimensions of M, L and T, we get
[v]=LT-1, [A]=L, [p]=ML-3, [g]=LT-2 a+b=O, -3a-b=1, -2b=-1
Substituting these dimensions in equation (i), we get 1 1
On solving, a = - - b =-
[Lrl] = [L]a [ML-3]b.[Lr2 r 2' 2

MOL1T-1 = MbLa - 3b + C T- 2c v = Kd" 1/2El/2 or v=~. [.: K=l]

EXAMPLE 56. Thefrequency 'v' of vibration of a stretched T = Ky3/2~1/2G-l/2
string depends upon :
K2 r3
(I) its length I, or T2= --
MG
(ii) its mass per unit length 'm' and
T2 oc~.
(iii) the tension T in the string.
Obtain dimensionally an expression for frequency v. EXAiVIPLB 58. Reynold number NR (a dimensionless
[Delhi 2002] quantity) determines the condition of laminar flow of a viscous
88tutioft.. Let the frequency of vibration of the
liquid through a pipe. NR is a function of the density of the
liquid 'p', its average speed 'v' and coefficient of viscosity '1'(
string be given by
Given that NR is also directly proportional to '0' (the
v = KI a nf T C ••• (i)
diameter of the pipe), show from dimensional considerations
where K = a dimensionless constant. that N oc·p v 0 .
Dimensions of the various quantities are : R "
[v] = T -1, [I] = L, [T] = Force = MLr2 The unit of" in 51 system is kg m' 1 S-l.

[m] = mass = M = ML 1 ,
Solution. Let NR = K pa v""c 0 ...(i)
length L . where K = a dimensionless constant.
Substituting these dimensions in equation (I), we get Dimensions of various quantities are
[r1] = [L]a [ML-1]" [MLr2]C [NR] = 1= ~ LOTO
01' ~LOrl :::M"+c La -"+C T -2c [p] = ML- 3, [v] = LT - 1,
Equating the dimensions of M, L and T, we get [,,]=Mr;l r= '. [O]=L
b+c=O, a-b+c=O, -2c=-1 Substituting these dimensions in equation (i), we get
1 1
On solving, a = -1, b = - -, c = -. [~L0r>] = [ML-3]a [Lr1]"[ML-1r1]C[L]
2 2
v = Kl-1m-1/2T1/2
Equating the powers of M, L and T, we get
or v=~ ~.
a+c=O, -3a+b-c+l=O, -b-c=O
EXAMPLE 57' A planet moves around the sun in nearly On solving, a = 1, b = 1, c = -1.
circular orbit. Its period of revolution 'T ' depends upon : PvO
.. NR--K pv"
11 -10_K---
(I) radiue 'r' of orbit (ii) mass 'M ' of the sun and
(iil) the gravitational constant G.
or N oc
PvO "
Show dimensionally that T2 oc ~. R "
Solution. Let T = K,a M" GC ••• (i)

where K = a dimensionless constant.

Dimensions of the various quantities are :
[T] = T,
[r] = L, [M]= M
2 2
[G]=~ MLr .L =~lL3r2.
~~ MM
Substituting these dimensions in equation (I), we get
[T] = [L]a [M]"[~ 1L3r21'
~LoT1 = M"-c I! +3c r2c
Equating tl\e dimensions of M, L and T, we get
b-c=O, a+3c=O, -2c=1
On solving,
3 1. 1
a=-, b=--, c=--
2 . 2 2 •
2.2. Fill in the blanks by suitable conversion of units:
(i) 1kg ~s- 2 = ....g em2s- 2
(il) 1m= lightyear (iii)3ms-2= kmh-2
11
(iv) G = 6.67 x 10- Nm kg- 2 =
2 em s- 2g-1
3

2 2 3 2
Ans. (I) 1 kg m s- = 1 (10 g) (10 em)2 s-2
=107gcm2s-2.
(ii) As 1 light year = 9.46 x 1(y.5 m

.. 1m = 1 01 light year
9.46 x l 5
= 1.053 x 10-16 light year > 10-16 light year.