1

Chapter
Units and Dimensions

REVIEW OF BASIC CONCEPTS Physical Quantity Name of the Unit Symbol

Mass kilogram kg
1.1 THE SI SYSTEM OF UNITS
Time second s
The internationally accepted standard units of the Electric current ampere A
fundamental physical quantities are given in Table 1.1. Temperature kelvin K
Luminous intensity candela cd
Table 1.1 Fundamental SI Units
Amount of substance mole mol
Physical Quantity Name of the Unit Symbol Angle in a plane radian rad
Length metre m Solid angle steradian sr

Table 1.2 Dimensional Formulae of some Physical Quantities

Physical Quantity Dimensional Formula Physical Quantity Dimensional Formula

0 2 0
Area ML T Heat energy ML2T–2
0 3 0
Volume ML T Entropy ML2T–2K–1
Density ML–3T 0 M0L2T –2K–1
Velocity M0LT –1 Latent heat M0L2T–2
0 –2
Acceleration M LT ML2T–2K–1 mol–1
Momentum MLT–1 Thermal conductivity MLT–3K–1
2 –1
Angular momentum ML T Wien’s constant M0LT0K
Force MLT–2 Stefan’s constant ML0T–3K–4
2 –2
Energy, work ML T Boltzmann’s constant ML2T–2K–1
Power ML2T–3 Molar gas constant ML2T–2K–1 mol–1
2 –2
Torque, couple ML T Electric charge TA
–1
Impulse MLT Electric current A
0 0 –1
Frequency MLT Electric potential ML2T–3 A–1
0 0 –1
Angular frequency MLT MLT–3 A–1
Angular acceleration M0L0T–2 Capacitance M –1L–2T4A2
–1 –2
Pressure ML T Inductance ML2T–2A–2
Elastic modulii ML–1T–2 Resistance ML2T–3A–2
–1 –2
Stress ML T ML2 T–2A–1
(Contd.)
1.2 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

Physical Quantity Dimensional Formula Physical Quantity Dimensional Formula

2 0
Moment of inertia ML T ML0T–2A–1

Surface tension ML0T–2 Permeability MLT –2A–2

Viscosity ML–1T –1 Permittivity M–1L–3T4A2
–1 2 –2
Gravitational constant M LT Planck’s constant ML2T –1

PRINCIPLE OF HOMOGENEITY OF Dimensions of at = dimensions of x

1.2 [ x] [L]
DIMENSIONS or [a] = [LT 1 ] [M 0 LT 1 ]
[t ] [T]
Consider a simple equation,
A + B = C. Dimensions of bt2 = dimensions of x
If this is an equation of physics, i.e. if A, B and C are x L
or b= 2 = [LT–2] = [M0 LT–2]
physical quantities, then this equation says that one physi- t T2
cal quantity A, when added to another physical quantity B,
gives a third physical quantity C. This equation will have
no meaning in physics if the nature (i.e. the dimensions) 1.2
of the quantities on the left-hand side of the equation is The pressure P, volume V and temperature T of a gas
not the same as the nature of the quantity on the right-hand are related as
A is a length, B must also be a length a
and the result of addition of A and B P V b = cT
V2
In other words, the dimensions of both sides of a physical
where a, b, and c are constants. Find the dimensions
equation must be identical. This is called the principle of
a
homogeneity of dimensions. of .
b
1.3 USES OF DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS
SOLUTION
Dimensional equations provide a very simple method of
deriving relations between physical quantities involved in a
Dimensions of = dimensions of P.
any physical phenomenon. The analysis of any phenom- V2
enon carried out by using the method of dimensions is Dimensions of a = dimensions of PV2
called dimensional analysis. This analysis is based on the Also dimensions of b = dimensions of V
a [ PV 2 ]
There are four important uses of dimensional Dimensions of =
b [V ]
equations:
1. Checking the correctness of an equation. = [PV] = [ML–1 T–2] [L3]
2. Derivation of the relationship between the physical = [ML2 T – 2]
quantities involved in any phenomenon.
NOTE
3. Finding the dimensions of constants or variables in
an equation. 1. Trigonometric function (sin, cos, tan, cot etc) are di-
4. Conversion of units from one system to another. mensionless. The arguments of these functions are also
dimensionless
1.1 -
nents are also dimensionless
The distance x travelled by a body varies with time t as
x = at + bt2, where a and b are constants. 1.3
Find the dimensions of a and b. When a plane wave travels in a medium, the displace-
ment y of a particle located at x at time t is given by
SOLUTION
y = a sin(bt + cx)
The dimensions of each term on the right hand of the
where a, b and c are constants. Find the dimensions
given equation must be the same as those of the left b
hand side. Hence of .
c
 Units and Dimensions 1.3

this equation must be the same. Equating the powers

SOLUTION
of M, L and T, we have
Terms bt and cx must be dimensionless. Hence 1
a = 0, b + c = 0 and – 2c = 1, which give b = and
1 2
[b] = [T 1] 1
[t ] c= .
2
1 1 Hence t = k m0 l1/2 g(– 1/2)
and [c] = [L 1 ]
[ x] [ L]
l
b t= k
= [LT –1] = M0 LT –1] g
c
Note that the dimensions of a are the same as those Thus t is independent of the mass of the bob
of y. and is directly proportional to l and inversely

1.4 proportional to g.
The dimensional method can also be used to convert a
2 physical quantity from one system to another. The method
a
P= e ax is based on the fact that the magnitude of a physical
b quantity X remains the same in every system of its
P is pressure, x is a distance and a and b are constants. measurement, i.e.
Find the dimensional formula for b. X = n1 u1 = n2 u2 (1)
SOLUTION where u1 and u2 are the two units of measurement of
quantity X and n1 and n2 are their respective numerical
a2 values. Suppose M1, L1 and T1 are the fundamental units
= [P]
b of mass, length and time in one system of measurement
and M2, L2 and T2 in the second system of measurement.
Also ax is dimensionless. Hence [a] = [L – 1]. Let a, b and c be the dimensions of mass, length and time
[a 2 ] [L 2 ] of quantity X, the units of measurement u1 and u2 will be
[b] = =
[ P] [ML 1 T 2 ] u1 = M1a Lb1 T1c
= [M–1 L–1 T2]
and u2 = M a2 Lb2 T2c
The principle of homogeneity of dimensions can also
Using these in Eq. (1), we have
on other physical quantities. n1 M1a Lb1 T1c = n2 M a2 Lb2 T2c
1.5 a b c
M1 L1 T1
The time period (t) of a simple pendulum may depend n2 = n1 (2)
M2 L2 T2
upon m the mass of the bob, l the length of the string
and g the acceleration due to gravity. Find the depen- Knowing (M1, L1, T1), (M2, L2, T2), (a, b and c) and the
dence of t on m, l and g. value of n1 in system 1, we can calculate the value of n2 in
system 2 from Eq. (2).
SOLUTION
Let t m al bg c 1.6
or t = k m al bg c, Dyne is the unit of force in the c.g.s. system and new-
ton is the unit of force in the SI system. Convert 1
where k is a dimensionless constant.
dyne into newton.
Writing the dimensions of each quantity, we have
2 c
[T] = [M ]a [L]b [LT ] SOLUTION
The dimensional formula of force is
or [M 0 L0 T] = [M a Lb c
T 2c
] [F] = [M1 L1 T–2]
According to the principle of homogeneity of dimen-
Therefore, a = 1, b = 1 and c = –2
sions, the dimensions of all the terms on either side of
1.4 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

System 1 System 2 SOLUTION

(Given System) (Required System)
[MLT–2] = 10 N (1)
n1 = 1 dyne n2 = ? (number of newtons)
M1 = 1g M2 = 1 kg [ML2 T–2] = 100 J (2)
L1 = 1 cm L2 = 1 m
[LT–1] = 5 ms–1 (3)
T1 = 1 s T2 = 1 s
a b c
Dividing Eq. (2) by Eq. (1), we get
M1 L1 T1 100 J 100 Nm
n2 = n1 L= = = 10 m
M2 L2 T2 10 N 10 N
1 1 2
1g 1 cm 1s Using L = 10 m in Eq. (3), we get T = 2 s. Using
=1 T = 2 s and L = 10 m in either Eq. (1) or Eq. (2), we
1 kg 1m 1s
get M = 4 kg.
1 1
1g 1 cm
=1 1 1.4 LIMITATIONS OF DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS
103 g 102 cm
=1 10–5 Though the dimensional method is a simple and a very

Hence there are 1 10–5 newtons in 1 dyne, i.e. 1 quantity on other quantities of a given system, it has its
dyne = 10–5 N. own limitations, some of which are listed as follows:
1. In more complicated situations, it is often not easy
1.7
Convert 72 kmh–1 into ms–1 by using the method of will depend. In such cases, one has to make a guess
dimensions. which may or may not work.
2. This method gives no information about the dimen-
sionless constant which has to be determined either
SOLUTION -
Given System Required System vation.
n1 = 72 units n2 = ? 3. This method is used only if a physical quantity var-
ies as the product of other physical quantities. It
L1 = 1 km L2 = 1 m
fails if a physical quantity depends on the sum or
T1 = 1 h T2 = 1 s difference of two quantities. Try, for instance, to
1 2
1 1 obtain the relation S = ut + at using the method
M1 L1 2
n2 = n1
M2 L2 of dimensions.
4. This method will not work if a quantity depends
1
1000 m 60 60 s on another quantity as sin or cos of an angle, i.e. if
= 72
1m 1s the dependence is by a trigonometric function. The
method works only if the dependence is by power
72 1000 functions only.
= = 20
60 60 5. This method does not give a complete information
–1
Hence 72 km h = 20 ms –1 in cases where a physical quantity depends on more
than three quantities, because by equating the pow-
NOTE ers of M, L and T, we can obtain only three equa-
Sometimes it is more convenient to use units rather than

72 km 72 1000 m 1.5 SIGNIFICANT FIGURES

72 km h–1 = = = 20 ms–1
1h 60 60 s
indicates the degree of precision of that measurement.
1.8 The degree of precision is determined by the least count
If the units of force, energy and velocity are 10 N, of the measuring instrument. Suppose a length measured
100 J and 5 ms–1 by a metre scale (of least count = 0.1 cm) is 1.5 cm, then
time.
 Units and Dimensions 1.5

with a vernier callipers (of least count = 0.01 cm) the

0.001 cm) the same length may be 1.536 cm which has 1.9

It must be clearly understood that we cannot increase

the accuracy of a measurement of changing the unit. For

39.4 kg. It is understood that the measuring instrument has SOLUTION

g or 39400000 mg, we cannot change the accuracy of M

measurement. Hence 39400 g or 39400000 mg still have

only the magnitude of measurement.

M
2. We use the following rule to determine the number

and division of various physical quantities.

The least accurate quantity determines the accuracy of Do not worry about the number of digits after the
the sum or product. The result must be rounded off to the
decimal place. Round off the result so that it has the
appropriate digit.
accurate quantity.

1.10
A man runs 100.2 m in 10.3 s. Find his average speed
(preceding) digit to be retained is left unchanged.

4 which is less than 5. SOLUTION

2. If the digit to be dropped is more than 5, the preced-
100.2 m –1
- Average speed (v) =
10.3s

3. If the digit to be dropped happens to be 5, then the time 10.3 s has only three. Hence the value of the
(a) the preceding digit to be retained is increased
by 1 if it odd, or The correct result is v = 9.73 ms–1
(b) the preceding digit is retained unchanged if it
is even. LEAST COUNTS OF SOME MEASURING
1.6 INSTRUMENTS
result of the indicated rounding-off is therefore, 5.3.
1. Least count of metre scale = 1 mm = 0.1 cm
2. Vernier constant (or least count) of vernier callipers
off to 3.4. = value of 1 main scale division – value of 1 vernier
scale division = 1 M.S.D. – 1 V.S.D
Let the value of 1 M.S.D = a unit
1. For addition and subtraction, we use the following If n vernier scale divisions coincide with m main
rule. scale divisions, then value of
Find the sum or difference of the given measured m
1.V.S.D = of 1 M.S.D
n
that it has the same number of digits after the deci- ma
mal place as in the least accurate quantity (i.e., the = unit
n
1.6 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

ma m u x y z
Least count = a – 1 a unit =
n n u x y z
3. Least count of a micrometer screw is found by the The proportional or relative error in u is u/u. The
formula values of x, y and z may be positive or negative
Least count = and in some uses the terms on the right hand side
Pitch of screw may counteract each other. This effect cannot be
Total number of divisions on circular scale relied upon and it is necessary to consider the worst
case which is the case when all errors add up giving
where pitch = lateral distance moved in one com-
an error u given by the equation:
plete rotation of the screw.
u x y z
=
ORDER OF ACCURACY: PROPORTIONATE u ma x y z
1.7 ERROR
u, multiply the proportional errors in each factor
The order of accuracy of the result of measurements is (x, y and z) by the numerical value of the power
determined by the least counts of the measuring instruments to which each factor is raised and then add all the
used to make those measurements. Suppose a length x is terms so obtained.
measured with a metre scale, then the error in x is x,
where x = least count of metre scale = 0.1 cm. If the same proportional error in the result of u. When the pro-
length is measured with vernier callipers of least count portional error of a quantity is multiplied by 100,
0.01 cm, then x = 0.01 cm. we get the percentage error of that quantity.
x
.
x x 1.11
100.
x ) of a
1. Suppose a quantity is given by rectangular metal block, a student makes the follow-
a=x+y ing measurements.
Then a = x + y Mass of block (m) = 39.3 g
a x y Length of block (x) = 5.12 cm
= Breadth of block (y) = 2.56 cm
a (x y)
Thickness of block (z) = 0.37 cm
2. If a = x – y -
mum error is The uncertainty in the measurement of m is ± 0.1 g
a= x+ y and in the measurement of x, y and z is ± 0.01 cm.
We take the worst case in which errors add up. Find the value of (in g cm – 3) up to appropriate
a x y
= of .
a ( x y)
3. Suppose we de- SOLUTION
termine the value of a physical quantity u by mea-
suring three quantities x, y and z whose true values m 39.3
= =
are related to u by the equation xyz 5.12 2.56 0.37
u = x y z– –3

m x y z
quantities x, y and z be respectively ± x, ± y and = + + +
ma m x y z
± z so that the error in u by using these observed
quantities is ± u. The numerical values of x, y 0.1 0.01 0.01 0.01
=
and z are given by the least count of the instru- 39.3 5.12 2.56 0.37
ments used to measure them. = 0.0353
–3
Taking logarithm of both sides we have = 0.0353 = 0.0353
log u = log x + log y – log z Round off error
Partial differentiation of the above equation gives = 0.3 gcm – 3.
 Units and Dimensions 1.7

–3
Hence is not accurate to the fourth of quantities A, B, C and D are 1%, 2%, 3% and 4%
decimal place. In fact, it is accurate only up to the respectively. Find the percentage error in the mea-
much be surement of X.

is written as SOLUTION
–3
X A B 1 C D
= 2 + + +3
X A B 3 C D
1.12
1
The time period of a simple pendulum is given by =2 1% + 2% + 3% + 3 4%
3
T = 2 L/ g . The measured value of L is 20.0 cm
= 17%
using a scale of least count 1 mm and time t for 100
oscillations is found to be 90 s using a watch of least
NOTE
count 1 s. Find the value of g (in m s–2) up to appro-

the value of g. 2. The quantity which is raised to the highest power con-
-
SOLUTION ured to a high degree of accuracy.

t
If t is the time for n oscillations, then T = . Given
n 1. For a simple pendulum T = 2
L g
T=2 . Squaring, we get
g
T 1
4 2 Ln 2 =
g= (1) T 2
t2
2. For a sphere of radius r,
Putting L = 0.200 m, n = 100 and t = 90 s, A 2 r
Surface area A = 4 r2 =
4 (3.14) 2 0.2 (100) 2 A r
g=
(90) 2 4 3 V 3 r
Volume V = r
= 9.74 m s–2 3 V r
From Eq. (1), the relative error in g is 3. Acceleration due to gravity g =
GM
g L 2 t R
=
g L t g 2 R M
=
Note that there is no error in counting the number (n) g R M
of oscillations. Thus 4. For resistances connected in series
g 0.1 cm 2 1s
= Rs R1 R2
g 20.0 cm 90s Rs = R1 + R2
Rs R1 R2
= 0.005 + 0.022 = 0.027
5. For resistances connected in parallel
g = 0.027 9.74 = 0.26 m s–2
Rounding off g 1 1 1 Rp R1 R2
= –
g = 0.3 m s–2. Hence the value of g must be rounded Rp R1 R2 R 2p R12 R22
off as g = 9.7 m s–2. Hence Rp R1 R2
g = (9.7 ± 0.3) m s–2 =
RP2 R12 R22

1.13 6. Kinetic energy K and linear momentum p are related

as
In the measurement of a physical quantity X =
p2 K 2 p
A2 B K =
, the percentage errors in the measurements 2m K p
C1/3 D3
1.8 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

Multiple Choice Questions with Only One Choice Correct

1. The pressure P is related to distance x, Boltzmann (c) 1.7 cm3 (d) 17.3 cm3
constant k and temperature as 9. The quantities L/R and RC (where L, C and R
a –ax/k stand for inductance, capacitance and resistance
P= e
b respectively) have the same dimensions as those of
The dimensional formula of b is (a) velocity (b) acceleration
(a) [M –1 L–1T–1] (b) [MLT 2] (c) time (d) force
(c) [M 0 L2T 0] (d) [M0 L0 T 0] 10. Which one of the following has the dimensions of
2. The magnitude of induced emf e in a conductor of ML–1T –2?
length L B is given by (a) torque (b) surface tension
(c) viscosity (d) stress
1
e= ( BL2) 11. The dimensions of angular momentum are
a (a) MLT –1 (b) ML2T–1
The dimensional formula of a is (c) ML –1T (d) ML0T –2
(a) [M 0 L0T] (b) [ML2T –2] 12. According to the quantum theory, the energy E of a
(c) [M 2 LT –1] (d) M 0 L0 T 0] photon of frequency is given by
3. Two resistors R1 = [3.0 ± 0.1] and R2 = (6.0 ± E=h
0.3) are connected in parallel. The resistance of where h is Planck’s constant. What is the dimen-
the combination is sional formula for h?
(a) (2.0 ± 0.4) (a) M L2 T –2 (b) M L2 T –1
(c) (2.0 ± 0.2) (d) (2.00 ± 0.04) 2
(c) M L T (d) M L2 T2
4. If the resistances in Q. 3 above were connected in
- 13. The dimensions of Planck’s constant are the same
tance of the combination will be as those of
(a) 1.1% (b) 2.2% (a) energy
(c) 3.3% (d) 4.4% (b) power
5. Which of the following pairs of physical quantities (c) angular frequency
do not have the same dimensions? (d) angular momentum
(a) Pressure and Young’s modulus 14. The volume V of water passing any point of a
(b) Emf and electric potential uniform tube during t seconds is related to the
(c) Heat and work cross-sectional area A of the tube and velocity u of
water by the relation
6. Which of the following pairs of physical quantities V A u t
have different dimensions? which one of the following will be true?
(a) Impulse and linear momentum (a) = = (b) =
(b) Planck’s constant and angular momentum
(c) = (d)
(c) Moment of inertia and moment of force
(d) Torque and energy 15. The frequency n of vibrations of uniform string of
7. A = A0 e–a/kT, k is Boltzmann length l and stretched with a force F is given by
constant and T is the absolute temperature. The di- n=
p F
mensions of a are the same as those of 2l m
(a) energy (b) time where p is the number of segments of the vibrating
(c) acceleration (d) velocity string and m is a constant of the string. What are the
8. A cube has a side of 1.2 cm. The volume of the cube dimensions of m?
(a) M L–1 T–1 (b) M L–3 T0
3
(b) 1.73 cm3 (c) M L T–2 0
(d) M L–1 T0
 Units and Dimensions 1.9

16. If velocity (V), acceleration (A) and force (F) are 29. The dimensions of capacitance are
taken as fundamental quantities instead of mass (a) M–1 L–2 TA2 (b) M–1 L–2 T2 A2
–1 –2 3 2
(M), length (L) and time (T), the dimensions of (c) M L T A (d) M–1 L–2 T4 A2
Young’s modulus would be 30. If velocity (V), force (F) and energy (E) are taken
(a) FA2V –2 (b) FA2V–3 as fundamental units, then dimensional formula for
(c) FA2V–4 (d) FA2V –5 mass will be
17. The dimensions of permittivity ( 0) of vacuum are (a) V –2F 0 E (b) V 0 FE 2
(a) M–1 L–3 T4 A2 (b) ML–3 T2 A2 (c) VF –2E 0 (d) V–2 F 0E
(c) M–1 L3 T4 A2 (d) ML3 T2 A2 31. Frequency (n) of a tuning fork depends upon length
(l) of its prongs, density ( ) and Young’s modulus
18. What are the dimensions of permeability ( 0) of (Y) of its material. Then frequency and Young’s
vacuum? modulus will be related as
(a) MLT–2 A2 (b) MLT–2 A–2 (a) n Y (b) n Y
(c) ML–1 T–2 A2 (d) ML–1 T–2 A–2 1 1
(c) n (d) n
Y Y
1 2
32. The dimensions of 0 E ( 0 = permittivity of free
19. The dimensions of 1/ 0 0 are the same as those 2
of space and E
(a) velocity (b) acceleration (a) MLT –1 (b) ML2T –2
(c) force (d) energy (c) ML T –1 –2
(d) ML2T–1
20. IIT, 2000
(a) MLT –2 K–1 (b) ML2 T–2 K–1
33. Of the following quantities, which one has dimen-
(c) M0L2T–2 K–1 (d) M0LT–2 K–1 sions different from the remaining three
21. What are the dimensions of latent heat?
(a) Energy per unit volume
(a) ML2 T –2 (b) ML–2 T–2
0 –2 (b) Force per unit area
(c) M LT (d) M 0 L2T –2
(c) Product of voltage and charge per unit volume
22. What are the dimensions of Boltzmann’s con-
(d) Angular momentum
stant?
34. If the time period t of a drop of liquid of density d,
(a) MLT –2 K–1 (b) ML2T–2 K–1 radius r, vibrating under surface tension s is given
0 –2 –1
(c) M LT K (d) M0L2T–2 K–1
by the formula t = d a r b s c and if a = 1, c = – 1,
23. The dimensions of potential difference are then b is
(a) ML2T – 3 A – 1 (b) MLT–2 A–1 (a) 1 (b) 2
(c) ML2T – 2 A (d) MLT–2 A (c) 3 (d) 4
24. What are the dimensions of electrical resistance? 35. In the measurement of a physical quantity X =
(a) ML2T –2 A2 (b) ML2 T–3 A–2 A2 B
. The percentage errors introduced in the
(c) ML2 T –3 A2 (d) ML2 T–2 A–2 C 1/ 3 D 3
25. measurements of the quantities A, B, C and D are
(a) MLT –3 A–1 (b) MLT –2 A–1 2%, 2%, 4% and 5% respectively. Then the mini-
(c) MLT A –1 –1
(d) MLT0 A–1 mum amount of percentage of error in the mea-
26. surement of X is contributed by:
(a) ML0 T –1 A–1 (b) M0L T –1 A–1 (a) A (b) B
–2 –1
(c) MLT A (d) ML 0 T–2 A–1 (c) C (d) D
27. 36. Which of the following has the dimensions
(a) ML2 T –2 A–1 (b) ML2 T–2 A–2 ML–1 T–1?
–2 –2 –1
(c) ML T A (d) ML–2 T–2 A–2
(c) Bulk modulus (c) Angular momentum
28. The dimensions of self inductance are 37. Pressure gradient dp/dx is the rate of change of
(a) ML2 T–2 A–1 (b) ML2 T–2 A–2 pressure with distance. What are the dimensions of
(c) ML–2 T–2 A–1 (d) ML–2 T–2 A–2 dp/dx?
1.10 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

(a) ML–1 T–1 (b) ML–2 T–2 a, b

(c) ML T –1 –2
(d) ML–2 T–1 and c respectively are
38. If E, M, J and G respectively denote energy, mass, 5 1 1 1 5 1
(a) , , (b) , ,
angular momentum and gravitational constant, then 6 2 3 2 6 3
EJ 2 1 1 5
has the dimensions of (c) , , (d) 1, 1, 1
M 5G 2 3 2 6
(a) length (b) angle
(c) mass (d) time 46. In a system of units in which the unit of mass is
IIT, 1990 a kg, unit of length is b metre and the unit of time
39. If e, 0, h and c respectively represent electronic is c second, the magnitude of a calorie is
charge, permittivity of free space, Planck’s con- 4.2c 4.2c 2
(a) (b)
e2 ab 2 ab 2
stant and speed of light, then has the dimen-
0 hc abc 4.2
sions of (c) (d)
(a) current (b) pressure 4.2 abc
(c) angular momentum (d) angle 47. The error in the measurement of the radius of a
40. If L, R, C and V respectively represent inductance, sphere is 1%. The error in the measurement of the
resistance, capacitance and potential difference, volume is
then the dimensions of
L
are the same as those (a) 1% (b) 3%
of RCV
1 48. If the error in the measurement of the volume of a
(a) current (b)
current sphere is 6%, then the error in the measurement of
1 its surface area will be
(c) charge (d) (a) 2% (b) 3%
charge
41. If E and B respe (c) 4% (d) 7.5%
E 49. The moment of inertia of a body rotating about a
has the 2
B in the SI system. What is
dimensions of the value of the moment of inertia in a system of
(a) displacement (b) velocity units in which the unit of length is 5 cm and the unit
(c) acceleration (d) angle of mass is 10 g?
42. If C and V respectively represent the capacitance of (a) 2.4 × 103 (b) 2.4 × 105
a capacitor and the potential difference between its (c) 6.0 × 103 (d) 6.0 × 105
plates, then the dimensions of CV2 are V
(a) ML2T–2 (b) ML3T–2 A–1 50. A quantity X is given by 0L where 0 is the
t
(c) ML2T–1A–1 (d) M0L0T0 permittivity of free space, L is a length, V is a
43. If h and e respectively represent Planck’s constant potential difference and t is a time interval. The
h dimensional formula for X is the same as that of
and electronic charge, then the dimensions of (a) resistance (b) charge
e
are the same as those of (c) voltage (d) current
IIT, 2001
51. ) of a liquid by the
44. If energy E, velocity V and time T are chosen as
the fundamental units, the dimensional formula for the formula
surface tension will be R4 P
(a) E V2T–2 (b) E V–1T–2 l Q
(c) E V–2T–2 (d) E2V–1T–2 where R = radius of the capillary tube,
45. l = length of the tube,
oscillates with a period proportional to Pa db Ec P = pressure difference between its ends,
where P is the static pressure, d is the density of and
 Units and Dimensions 1.11

Q
Which quantity must be measured most accurately? -
dent also measures the diameter of the wire to be
(a) R (b) l
0.4 mm with a uncertainty of ± 0.01 mm. Take g
(c) P (d) Q 2
52. The mass m of the heaviest stone that can be from the reading is
(a) (2.0 ± 0.3) 1011 N/m2
v, the speed of water, density (d) of water and the (b) (2.0 ± 0.2) 1011 N/m2
acceleration due to gravity (g). Then m is propor- (c) (2.0 ± 0.1) 1011 N/m2
tional to (d) (2.0 ± 0.05) 1011 N/m2
(a) v2 (b) v4 IIT, 2007
6
(c) v (d) v
53. The speed (v) of ripples depends upon their wave- 59. In a vernier callipers, one main scale division is
length ( ), density ( ) and surface tension ( ) of x cm and n divisions of the vernier scale coincide
water. Then v is proportional to with (n – 1) divisions of the main scale. The least
count (in cm) of the callipers is
(a) (b)
n 1 nx
1 1 (a) x (b)
(c) (d) n (n 1)
x x
54. The period of revolution (T) of a planet moving (c) (d)
n (n 1)
round the sun in a circular orbit depends upon the
radius (r) of the orbit, mass (M) of the sun and the IIT, 2007
gravitation constant (G). Then T is proportional to 60.
(a) r1/2 (b) r measuring the acceleration due to gravity (g) using a
(c) r3/2 (d) r2 simple pendulum. They use different lengths of the
pendulum and/or record time for different number of
55. If the velocity of light (c), gravitational constant oscillations. The observations are shown in the table.
(G) and planck’s constant (h) are chosen as fun- Least count for length = 0.1 cm
damental units, the dimensions of time in the new Least count for time = 0.1 s
system will be
(a) c –5/2G2h–1/2 (b) c–3/2G–2h2 Student Length of the Number of Total time for Time
2 –2 1/2 –5/2 1/2 1/2 pendulum oscillations (n) period
(c) c G h (d) c G h (cm) (n) oscillations (s) (s)
56. The amplitude of a damped oscillator of mass m
I 64.0 16.0
varies with time t as
II 64.0 4 64.0 16.0
A = A0 e( at m )
The dimensions of a are III 20.0 4 36.0 9.0
(a) ML0T–1 (b) M0LT–1 If EI, EII and EIII are the percentage errors in g. i.e.
–1
(c) MLT (d) ML–1T
g
57. A student measures the value of g with the help of 100 for student I, II and III, respectively,
a simple pendulum using the formula g
4 2
L (a) E1 = 0 (b) EI is minimum
g= 2 (c) EI = EII (d) EII is minimum
T
The errors in the measurements of L and T are L
and T respectively. In which of the following cas- 61. The density of a solid ball is to be determined in an
es is the error in the value of g the minimum?
(a) L = 0.5 cm, T = 0.5 s with a screw gauge, whose pitch is 0.5 mm and
(b) L = 0.2 cm, T = 0.2 s there are 50 divisions on the circular scale. The
(c) L = 0.1 cm, T = 1.0 s reading on the main scale is 20 divisions. If the
(d) L = 0.1 cm, T = 0.1 s measured mass of the ball has a relative error of
58. 2%, the relative percentage error in the density is
(a) 0.9% (b) 2.4%
long, by Searle’s method. In a particular reading, (c) 3.1% (d) 4.2%
IIT, 2011
1.12 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

ANSWERS
1. (c) 2. (a) 3. (b) 4. (d) 5. (d) 6. (c)
7. (a) 8. (c) 9. (c) 10. (d) 11. (b) 12. (b)
13. (d) 14. (b) 15. (d) 16. (c) 17. (a) 18. (b)
19. (a) 20. (c) 21. (d) 22. (b) 23. (a) 24. (b)
25. (a) 26. (d) 27. (a) 28. (b) 29. (d) 30. (d)
31. (a) 32. (c) 33. (d) 34. (c) 35. (c) 36. (b)
37. (b) 38. (b) 39. (d) 40. (b) 41. (b) 42. (a)
43. (c) 44. (c) 45. (a) 46. (b) 47. (b) 48. (c)
49. (b) 50. (d) 51. (a) 52. (c) 53. (d) 54. (c)
55. (d) 56. (a) 57. (d) 58. (b) 59. (c) 60. (b)
61. (c)

SOLUTIONS 5. The correct choice is (d).

6. The correct choice is (c).
1. 7. Since kT has dimensions of energy, the correct
1
k JK K choice is (a).
[a] = =
x m 8. V = L3 = 1.2 cm 1.2 cm 1.2 cm
3
–1
=Jm
= [M L2T–2] [L–1] L = 1.2 cm,
= M L T –2
[a] Hence the correct choice is (c).
Also [P] =
[b] 9. L/ R is the time constant of an L-R circuit and CR
[a] ML1 T 2 is the time constant of a C-R circuit. The dimension
[b] = = 1 2
= [M 0 L2T 0] of the time constant is the same as that of time.
[ P] ML T
Hence the correct choice is (c).
So the correct choice is (c). 10. ML–1T –2 are the dimensions of force per unit area.
BL2 [M 0 L0 T 0 ] [ML0 T 2 A 1 ] [L2 ] Out of the four choices, stress is the only quantity
2. a = =
e [ML2 T 3 A 1 ] that is force per unit area. Hence the correct choice
is (d).
= [M0 L0T1]
11. The angular momentum L of a particle with respect
1 1 1 to point whose position vector is r is given by
3. =
R R1 R2 L=r p
R1 R2 3.0 6.0 where p is the linear momentum of the moving
R= = = 2.0 particle.
R1 R2 9.0
Dimensions of L = dimension of r dimensions
R
=
R1 R2 of p
R 2
R12 R22 = L MLT –1 = ML2T–1
Thus the correct choice is (b).
0.1 0.3
= 2
= 0.019 dimension of E ML2 T 2
(3) ( 6) 2 12. Dimensions of h = =
dimension of T 1
R = 0.019 R2 = 0.019 (2)2 = 0.076
= ML2 T –1
Hence the correct choice is (b). Thus the correct choice is (b).
4. R = R1 + R2 = 3.0 + 6.0 = 9.0 13. The correct choice is (d).
R = R1 + R2 = 0.1 + 0.3 = 0.4 14. The dimensions of the two sides of proportionality
R
100 are
R
L 3 = L 2 (LT –1 ) T = L2 + T –
0.4 Equating the powers of dimensions on both sides,
= 100
9.0 we have
= 4.4% 2 + =3
So the correct choice is (d). – =0
 Units and Dimensions 1.13

1 L MLT 2
L1
which give = and =
(3 – ), i.e. = . Dimensions of =
2 0
A2
Thus the correct choice is (b). = MLT A – 2 –2
15. Squaring both sides of the given relation, we get Therefore, the correct choice is (b).
p2 F p2 F 19. Dimensions of
n2 = 2 or m =
4l m 4 l 2 n2 1 1
dimensions of m 1
2
dimensions of F
0 0
MLT A2 M 1L 3 T 4 A 2 2
=
dimensions of l 2 dimensions of n 2 1
= = LT – 1
( p is a dimensionless number) 1
2 2 2
2 L T
MLT –1 0
= = ML T which are the dimensions of velocity. Hence the
1 2
L2 T correct choice is (a).
Hence the correct choice is (d). 20. The heat energy content H of a body of mass m at
16. Dimensions of Young’s modulus Y are ML–1 T–2. temperature is given by H = ms
The dimension of V, A and F in terms of M, L and where s
T are H
(V) = LT –1, (A) = LT –2 s=
m
and (F) = MLT –2 Dimensions of s
Let (Y ) = (V a A b F c ) dimensions of heat energy
Putting dimensions of Y, V, A and F. We have dimension of mass dimension of temperature
(ML–1 T –2 ) = (LT –1) a ( LT – 2 ) b ML2 T 2
= = M 0 L 2T – 2 K – 1
(MLT – 2) c M K
or M1 L – 1 T – 2 = M c La + b + c T – a – 2b – 2c Thus the correct choice is (c).
Equating powers of M, L and T we have 21. Latent heat L is the amount of heat energy H re-
quired to change the state of a unit mass without
c = 1, a + b + c = – 1
producing any change in temperature. Thus
and – a – 2b – 2c = – 2
H
which give a = – 4, b = 2 and c = 1. L=
2 –4
Thus (Y) = (FA V ) m
Thus the correct choice is (c). ML2 T 2
Dimensions of L =
17. According to Coulomb’s law of electrostatics, force M
F between two charges q1 and q2 a distance r apart = L T = M 0 L 2T – 2
2 –2

in vacuum, is given by Thus the correct choice is (d).

1 q1q2 22. According to the law of equipartition of energy,
F= the energy per degree of freedom of a gas atom or
4 0 r2 molecule at a temperature kelvin is given by
1 q1q2 1 2E
or 0 = E= k or k =
4 F r2 2
where k is the Boltzmann’s constant.
Q2 dimensions of E
Dimensions of 0 = Dimensions of k =
MLT 2 L2 dimension of
–1 –3 2 2
=M L T Q
Q ML2 T 2
=M L T A A –1 –3 4 2 ML2 T 2 K 1
T K
The correct choice is (a). 23. The potential difference V between two points is
18. The force per unit length between two long wires the amount of work done in moving a unit charge
carrying currents I1 and I2 a distance r apart in vac- from one point to the other.
uum, is given by
II 4 rf work done W
f = 0 1 2 or 0 = Thus, V=
4 r I1 I 2 charge moved q
1.14 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

ML2 T 2 ML2 T 3 A 1
Dimensions of V = = ML2 T –2 Q –1 = = ML2 T –2 A–2
Q A/T
= ML2 T –3 A –1 ( Q = AT) Thus the correct choice is (b).
Hence the correct choice is (a). 29. When a capacitor of capacitance C is charged to a
24. From Ohm’s law, resistance R is given by potential difference V, the charge Q on the capaci-
potential difference tor plates is given by
R= Q
current Q = CV or C =
V
ML2 T 3 A 1
Dimensions of R = dimensions of Q
A Dimensions of C =
2 – 3 –2 dimensions of V
= ML T A AT
Thus the correct choice is (b). =
25. Force F q in an electric ML T 3 A 1
2

E is given by = M –1 L –2 T 4 A2
F Hence the correct choice is (d).
F = qE or E =
q 30. Let (M) = V a F b E c
dimensions of F MLT 2 Putting the dimensions of V, F and E, we have
Dimensions of E =
dimensions of Q AT (M) = (LT –1 )a (MLT –2 )b (ML2T –2 )c
= MLT–3A–1. or M 1 = M b +c La+b+2c T –a–2b–2c
26. The force F q moving Equating the powers of dimensions, we have
with speed v perpendicular to the direction of a
B is given by b+c=1
F a + b + 2c = 0
F = qvB or B =
qv – a – 2b – 2c = 0
MLT 2 which give a = – 2, b = 0 and c = 1. Therefore
Dimensions of B = = ML0 T –1Q–1 (M) = (V –2 F 0 E).
Q LT 1
Thus the correct choice is (d).
= ML0T –2A–1 ( Q = AT)
Hence the correct choice is (d) 31. Let n l a b Yc
27. linked with a circuit of area A Putting dimensions of all the quantities, we have
B is given by (T –1) La (ML–3 ) b (ML–1 T –2)c
= BA cos Equating powers of M, L and T on both sides, we get
where
b + c = 0, a – 3b – c = 0 and – 2c = – 1
vectors.
1 1
Dimensions of = dimensions of BA which give a = – 1, b = – and c = . Thus
( cos is dimensionless) 2 2
= ML0 T –2 A–1 L2 n l –1 1/2 Y 1/2
= ML2 T–2 A–1 Hence the correct choice is (a).
Thus the correct choice is (a). 32. We know that
28. The self inductance L of a coil in which the current q1 q2 F
dI F= and E =
varies at a rate is given by 4 0 r 2
q
dt dI
e=–L q1 q2
dt 0 =
where e is the e.m.f. induced in the coil. Now, 4 F r2
the dimensions of e.m.f. are the same as those of 1 q1 q2 F2
potential difference, namely, ML2 T –3 A–1. Hence 0 E2 =
2 F r2 q2
e
Now, L=– q1 q2 F
dI = 2
dt q r2
Dimensions of L
1 F
dimensions of e Dimensions of 0 E 2 = dimensions of =
= 2 r2
dimensions of I / dimensions of t
 Units and Dimensions 1.15

2 41. The force on a particle of charge q moving with

M LT
= ML–1T –2 a velocity in E and B
L2
= q (E + B)
Hence the correct choice is (c).
Hence the dimensions of E are the same as those of
33. Energy per unit volume, force per unit area and
vB.
product of voltage and charge density all have 42. Energy stored in a capacitor of capacitance C hav-
dimensions of ML2T–2, but the dimensions of ing a potential difference V between its plates is
angular momentum are ML2T–1. Hence the correct given by
choice is (d). 1
U = CV2
34. Given t = da/2 rb/2 sc/2. Substituting dimensions, we 2
have Hence, the dimensions of CV 2 = dimensions of en-
(T) = (ML–3)a/2 (L)b/2 (MT–2)c/2 ergy. Hence the correct choice is (a).
= M(a + c)/2 · L(–3a/2 + b/2) T–c h (ML2 T 1 )
3 b 43. Dimensions of = ML2 T–2 A–1
Equating powers of L, we have, a = 0. e AT
Given a = 1. 2 2 Dimensions of B = MT–2 A–1
3 b B area
= 0 or b = 3, which is choice(c).
2 2 44. Let surface tension = Ea Vb Tc. Using the dimen-
A2 B sions of , E, V and T and equating powers of M,
35. Given X = 1/ 3 3 a, b and c. The correct
C D
Taking logarithm of both sides, we have choice is (c).
1 45. The correct choice is (a).
log X = 2 log A + log B – log C – 3 log D 46. Let n1 be the magnitude (i.e. numerical value) of
3
Partially differentiating, we have a physical quantity when the fundamental units
x A B 1 C D are (M1, L1, T1) and n2 the magnitude of the same
= 2 3 physical quantity when the fundamental units are
x A B 3 C D
(M2, L2, T2), then, it is obvious that
A
Percentage error in A = 2 = 2 2%
A n1 (M1x L1y T1z ) = n2 (M 2x Ly2 T2z ) (i)
= 4% where x, y and z are the dimensions of the physi-
B cal quantity in mass, length and time respective-
Percentage error in B = = 2%
B ly. Now, we know that 1 calorie = 4.2 joule = 4.2
1 C 1 kg m2s–2
Percentage error in C = = 4%
3 C 3 n1 = 4.2, x = 1, y = 2 and z = – 2. Hence, in the
4 second system of units in which M2 = a kg,
= % L2 = b m and T2 = c s, we have from (i)
3
D
Percentage error in D = 3 = 3 5% M1
x
L1
y
T1
z
D n2 = n1
= 15% M2 L2 T2
x y z
1 kg 1m 1s
contributed by C. Hence the correct choice is (c). = n1
a kg bm cs
36. The correct choice is (b)
1 2 2
37. The correct choice is (b) 1 1 1
= 4.2
38. Dimensions of J and G are ML2T–1 and M–1L3 T–2 a b c
respectively.
4.2c 2
39. Dimensions of o and h are M–1L–3 T4 A2 and =
ML2T–1 respectively. ab 2
4 3
40. RC has the dimensions of time (T). V has the 47. V = r . Taking logarithm of both sides, we
dimensions of emf which has the dimensions of 3
dI have
L . log V = log 4 + log + 3 log r – log 3
dt
1.16 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

Differentiating, we get 55. The correct choice is (d).

V r 56.
=3 = 3 × 1% = 3% at/m is dimensionless. Therefore,
V r
dimension of m M
48.
V
=3
r
or 6% = 3
r
or
r
= 2%. Dimension of a = =
V r r r dimension of t T
Now surface area s = 4 r2 or log s = log 4 + 2 log r = M L0 T–1
s r 57. The proportionate error in the measurement of g
=2 = 2 × 2% = 4%.
s r is
49. The dimensions of moment of inertia are (ML2). g
=
L
+ 2
T
We have g L T
n1(u1) = n2(u2) Hence g will be minimum if L and T are
or n1(M1 L21 ) = n2 (M 2 L22 ) minimum. Thus the correct choice is (d).
2 FL 4MgL
n1 (M1L22 ) M1 L1 58. Y= = (1)
n2 = 2
= n1 Al d 2l
(M 2 L 2 ) M2 L2
where
Given n1 = 6.0, M1 = 1 kg, L1 = 1 m, M2 = 10 g and M g –2
L2 = 5 cm. Therefore,
2 L l 10–3 m
1 kg 1m l = ± 0.05 mm, d = 0.4 mm = 0.4 10–3 m
n2 = 6.0 × ×
10 g 5 cm d = ± 0.01 mm
2 Substituting the values of M, g, L, d and l in Eq. (1)
1000 g 100 cm
= 6.0 × × we get
10 g 5 cm Y = 2.0 1011 Nm–2
= 6.0 × 100 × (20)2 = 2.4 × 105 From Eq. (1) the proportionate uncertainty in Y is
50. The capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor is giv- given by
en by C = 0A/d. Hence the dimensions of 0L are Y M g L 2 d l
the same as those of capacitance. =
Y M g L d l
V
Dimension of 0L Since the values of M, g and L M = 0,
t
g = 0 and L = 0. Hence
dimension of C dimensions of V
= Y 2 d l 2 0.01 mm 0.05 mm
time = =
Y d l 0.4 mm . mm
dimension of Q
= ( Q = CV) = 0.05 + 0.0625
time
Hence the correct choice is (d). = 0.1125
Y = 0.1125 Y = 0.1125 2.0 1011
51. The correct choice is (a). = 0.225 1011 Nm–2
is given by the Since the value of Y
relation decimal place, the value of Y must be rounded
R l P Q
= 4 Y = 0.2 1011
R l P Q –2
Nm
It is clear that the error in the measurement of R is Y + Y = (2.0 0.2) 1011 Nm–2
Hence the correct choice is (b).
of R4 in the formula. Hence the radius (R) of the 59. Vernier constant = value of 1 M.S.D – value of
capillary tube must be measured most accurately. 1 V.S.D.
Thus the quantity which is raised to the highest Now n V.S.D = (n – 1) M.S.D = (n – 1) x cm
power needs the most accurate measurement. n 1
1 V.S.D = x cm
52. Take m v a d b g c and show that a = 6. n
1 n 1
53. Take v a b c
and show that a = –. V.C. = x cm – x cm =
x
cm
2 n n
3
54. Take T r a Mb G c and show that a = – . Hence the correct choice is (c).
2
 Units and Dimensions 1.17

2 Thus the percentage error is minimum for student I.

l 4 l
60. T = 2 g= Therefore, 61. Least count of screw gauge
g T2
pitch
=
g l 2 T number of divisions on circular scale
=
g l T 0.5 mm
g = = 0.01 mm
For student I, EI = 100 50
g diameter of ball = 2.5 mm + 20 0.01 mm
0.1 2 0.1 = 2.7 mm
= 100 M
64.0 .0 Density =
5 4 3
= % r
16 3
is
0.1 2 0.1
For student II, EII = 100 M 3 r
64 64.0 =
M r
15
= % 0.01
32 = 2% + 3 100
0.1 2 0.1 2.7
For student III, EIII = 100 = 2% + 1.1% = 3.1%
20.0 36.0
19
= %

II

Multiple Choice Questions with One or More Choices Correct

1. Which of the following are not a unit of time? 5. In Q.4, the dimensions of b are the same as those of
(a) parsec (b) light year (a) wave velocity (b) wave frequency
(c) micron (d) second (c) particle frequency (d) wavelength
2. Choose the pair of physical quantities which have b
identical dimensions. 6. In Q.4, the dimensions of are the same as those
c
(a) Impulse and linear momentum of
(b) Planck’s constant and angular momentum (a) wave velocity (b) angular frequency
(c) Moment of inertia and moment of force (c) particle velocity (d) wave frequency
(d) Young’s modulus and pressure 7. The Van der Waal equation for n moles of a real
3. The dimensions of energy per unit volume are the gas is
same as those of a
P (V – b) = nRT
(a) work (b) stress V2
(c) pressure (d) modulus of elasticity where P is the pressure, V is the volume, T is the
4. When a wave traverses a medium, the displacement absolute temperature, R is the molar gas constant
of a particle located at x at time t is given by and a, b are Van der Waal constants. The dimen-
y = a sin (bt – cx) sions of
where a, b and c are constants of the wave. Which (a) a are the same as those of PV2
of the following are dimensionless quantities? (b) b are the same as those of V
(a) y/a (b) bt a
(c) are the same as those of RT
b V
(c) cx (d)
c (d) bP are the same as those of RT.
1.18 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

8. In Q.7, which of the following have the same

dimensions as those of PV? 0.3)
a
(a) nRT (b)
V 0.2)
ab (c) The minimum resistance obtainable is (2.0 ±
(c) Pb (d)
V2 0.3)
9. In Q.7, the dimensions of nRT are the same as (d) The minimum resistance obtainable is (2.0 ±
those of 0.2)
(a) pressure (b) energy 14. A physical quantity P is given by
(c) work (d) force a 3b 2
P=
10. Which of the following are dimensionless? d c
(a) Boltzmann constant (b) Planck’s constant The percentage errors in the measurements of a, b,
(c) Poisson’s ratio (d) relative density c, and d are 1%, 3%, 4%, and 3% respectvely.
11. For a body in uniformly accelerated motion, the P is 14%
distance x of the body from a reference point at time P is 10%
t is given by
x = at + bt2 + c measurement of b.
where a, b and c are constants of motion. (d) The minimum error is contributed by the
(a) The dimensions of c are the same as those measurement of c.
of x, at and bt2. 15. When a plane wave travels in a meduim, the
diplacement y of a particle located at x at time t is
(b) The dimensional formula of b is [M0 LT–2].
given by
a
(c) is dimensionless. y = a sin (bt – cx)
b
(d) The acceleration of the body is 2b. where a, b, and c are constants.
12. The side of a cube is L = (1.2 ± 0.1) cm. The (a) The unit a is the same as that of y.
volume of the cube is (b) The SI unit of b is Hz.
3 (c) The dimensional formule of c is [M0L–1T0]
(b) (1.73 ± 0.02) cm3
b
(c) (1.7 ± 0.4) cm3 (d) (1.7 ± 0.3) cm3 (d) The dimensions of are the same those of
c
13. Two resistances R1 = (3.0 ± 0.1) and R2 = (6.0 ± velocity.
0.2) are to be joined together.

ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS

1. Choices (a), (b) and (c) are units of length and cx are also dimensionless. Hence the correct
2. The dimensions of moment of inertia are ML2T 0 choice are (a), (b) and (c).
and of moment of force are ML2T–2. All other pairs 5. Since bt is dimensionless, the dimensions of b =
in (a), (b) and (d) have identical dimensions. dimensions of 1/t = T–1, which are the dimensions
3. Dimensions of energy per unit volume are = of angular frequency as well as wave frequency.
dimensions of energy / dimensions of volume = Hence the correct choices are (b) and (d).
ML2T –2 / L3 = ML–1T –2. Stress, pressure and modu- 6. Dimensions of bt = dimensions of cx. Therefore
lus of elasticity all have the dimensions of ML–1T–2. b x
Dimensions of = dimensions of = LT –1.
The dimensions of work are ML2T–2. Hence the c t
correct choices are (b), (c) and (d). Hence the correct choices are (a) and (c).
4. Since the sine function is dimensionless, sin (bt 7.
– cx) is dimensionless. Therefore, y and a must a ab
PV – Pb + = n RT
have the same dimensions, i.e. y/a is dimension- V V2
less. Since the argument of a sine function (or any From the principle of homogeneity, it follows that
trigonometric function) must be dimensionless, bt all the four choices are correct.
 Units and Dimensions 1.19

8. The correct choices are (a), (b), (c) and (d). Rs ± Rs = (9.0 ± 0.3)
9. The dimensions of nRT = dimensions of PV Thus choice (a) is correct and choice (b) is wrong.
= ML–1 T –2 L3 = ML2 T–2 The minimum value is obtained when the resis-
which are dimensions of energy as well as work. tances are joined in parallel.
Hence the correct choices are (b) and (c). 1 1 1
10. The correct choices are (c) and (d). =
Rp R1 R2
11. From the principle of homogeneity of dimensions,
the dimensions of c must be the same as those of R1 R2 3.0 6.0
Rp = = = 2.0
x at and bt2. Therefore, choice (a) is correct. Also R1 R2 3.0 6.0
dimension of bt2 = dimension of x. Hence [b]= RR
Now Rp = 1 2 ( R 1 + R 2 = R s)
[LT–2]. Hence choice (b) is also correct. Velocity Rs
of the body is Rp R1 R2 Rs
dx d =
v= = [at + bt2 + c] = a + 2bt Rp R1 R2 Rs
dt dt
and acceleration is 0.1 0.2 0.3
=
dv d 3.0 6.0 9.0
= (a + 2 bt) = 2b, which is choice (d)
dt dt = 0.033 + 0.033 + 0.033
a
choice (c) is wrong since has dimension of = 0.099 0.1
b Rp = 0.1 Rp = 0.1 2 = 0.2
time [T]
12. Volume of cube (V = L3) = 1.2 cm 1.2 cm Minimum value is (Rp ± Rp) = (2.0 ± 0.2) .
3
. Now L = (1.2 ± 0.1) cm has Hence choice (c) is wrong and choice (d) is is
V must correct.
1
14. log P = 3 log a + 2 log b – log d – log c
value of V = 1.7 cm3. Now 2
V = L3 P 3 a 2 b d 1 c
=
V 3 L 3 0.1 P ma a b d 2 c
= = = 0.25 1
V L 1.2 = 3 1% + 2 3% + 3% + %
V = 0.25 V = 0.25 1.7 cm3 = 0.425 cm3 2
The error in V is in = 3% + 6% + 3% + 2% = 14%
the value of V should be rounded off as V = Hence the correct choices are (a), (c) and (d).
0.4 cm3. Thus the correct result is V ± V = (1.7 ± 15. The value of any trignomatric function is a dimen-
0.4) cm3, which is choice (c). sionless number. Hence choice (a) is correct. The
13. - argument of a trignometric function is also dimen-
sionless. Hence (bt – cx) is dimensionless. Hence b
value is has dimension [T–1] the same as that of frequency
Rs= R1+ R2= 3.0 + 6.0 = 9.0 and c has dimension of [L–1]. Thus choices (b), (c)
Error in Rs= Rs= R1+ R2= 0.2 + 0.1 = 0.3 and (d) are all correct.

III

Multiple Choice Questions Based on Passage

physical quantities of a given system. This method has its
Passage-I own limitations. In a complicated situation, it is often not
easy to guess the factors on which a physical quantity will
The dimensional method is a very convenient way of depend. Secondly, this method gives no information about
the dimensionless proportionality constant. Thirdly, this
1.20 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

method is used only if a physical quantity depends on the

product of other physical quantities. Fourthly, this method least count of the measuring instrument used. The number
will not work if a physical quantity depends only on
degree of precision of that measurement. The importance
Finally, this method does not give complete information
in cases where a physical quantity depends on more than calculation cannot increase the precision of a physical
three quantities in problems in mechanics.
1. The dimensional method cannot be used to obtain in the sum or product of a group of numbers cannot be
denpendence of greater than the number that has the least number of
(a) the height to which a liquid rises in a capil-
lary tube on the angle of contact weakest link.
(b) speed of sound in an elastic medium on the
3.
modulus of elactricity.
0.0123 kg. What is the total mass supported by the
(c) height to which a body, projected upwards
-
with a certain velocity, will rise on time t.
(d) the decrease in energy of a damped oscillator ures?
on time t.
(c) 0.0124 kg (d) 0.012 kg
2. In dimensional method, the dimensionless propor-
tionality constant is to be determined 4. The radius of a uniform wire is r = 0.021 cm. The
value is given to be 3.142. What is the area of
(b) by a detailed mathematical derivation -
(c) by using the principle of dimensional homo-
geneity. (a) 0.0014 cm2 (b) 0.00139 cm2
(d) by equating the powers of M, L and T. 2 2

5. A man runs 100.5 m in 10.3 s. Find his average

Passage-II
In the study of physics, we often have to measure the (a) 9.71 ms–1 –1
–1 –1
physical quantities. The numerical value of a measured

ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS

1. The correct choices are (a), (c) and (d). The the sum must be rounded off to the fourth decimal
height of a liquid in a capillary tube depends on place. Therefore the correct choice is (c).
cos , where is the angle of contact. The height 4. A = r2 = 3.142 (0.021)2 2
. Now,
1
S to which a body rises is given by S = ut + at2,
2 -
1
which is a sum of two terms ut and at2. The A = 0.0014 cm2, which is choice (a).
2 100.5 m
- –1
5. Average speed =
tially with time. 10.3 s
2. The correct choices are (a) and (b).
3. the time has only three. Hence the result must

- 9.71 ms–1. Thus the correct choice is (a).

curate only upto the fourth decimal place. Hence
 Units and Dimensions 1.21

IV

Matrix Match Type

1. Match the physical quantities in column I with their SI units in column II

Column I Column II
(a) Stefan’s constant (p) JK–1 mol–1
(b) Universal gas constant (q) Fm–1
(c) Electrical permittivity (r) Hm–1
(d) Magnetic permeability (s) Wm–2 K–4
ANSWER
1. (a) (s) (b) (p)
(c) (q) (d) (r)
2.
Column I Column II

(b) 0.034 (q) 4

(c) 0.002504 (r) 2
(d) 1.25 1.07 (s) 5
ANSWER
2. (a) (s) (b) (r)
(c) (q) (d) (p)
3. Match the quantities in column I with their order of magnitude given in column II
Column I Column II
(a) 2.6 104 (p) 105
(b) 3.9 104 (q) 10–23
10–24 (r) 10–24
(d) 4.2 10–24 (s) 104
ANSWER
3. x = 4.3 103, take its loga-
rithm to the base 10. Log x = 3.633 and round if off as log x = 4 . So the order of magnitnde of x is 104.
(a) (s) (b) (p)
(c) (r) (d) (q)

4.
(Q) given in column II.
Column I Column II
(a) Angular momentum (p) M L–2 T–2
(b) Latent heat (q) M L2 Q–2
(c) Torque (r) M L2 T–1
(d) Capacitance (s) M L3 T–1 Q–2
1.22 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

(e) Inductance (t) M–1 L–2 T2 Q2

(f) Resistivity (u) M0 L2 T–1

ANSWER
4. (a) (r) (b) (u)
(c) (p) (d) (t)
(e) (q) (f) (s)

SOLUTION
(a) Angular momentum L = r p = r (mv)
[L] = [L M L T–1] = [M L2 T–1]
Q heat energy [M L2 T 2 ]
(b) Latent heat = = = [M0 L2 T–2]
m mass [M]
(c) Torque = r F
[ ]= [L M L T–2] = [M L2 T–2]
Q Q Q2
(d) Q = CV C=
V W /Q W
Q2
[C] = = [M–1 L–2 T2 Q2]
[M L2 T 2 ]
LdI W LQ
(e) |V | =
dt Q T2
WT 2 [M L2 T 2 ] [T 2 ]
[L] = = [M L2 Q–2]
Q2 Q2
RA VA WA [M L2 T 2 L2 ]
(f) = = M L3 T–1 Q–2
L IL QIL Q
Q L
T

5. Column I gives three physical quantities. Select the appropriate units given in Column II.
Column I Column II
(a) Capacitance (p) Ohm second
(b) Inductance (q) (coulomb)2 (joule)–1
(r) coulomb (volt)–1
(c) Magnetic induction (s) newton (ampere metre)–1
or
–1

IIT, 1990
SOLUTION
unit of Q
5. (a) From Q = CV, unit of C = = coulomb (volt)–1
unit of V
Q2
From U = , unit of C = (coulomb)2 (volt)–1
2C
 Units and Dimensions 1.23

dI
(b) From |e| = L , unit of L = volt second (ampere)–1 = ohm second
dt
(c) From F = BIL, unit of B = newton (ampere metre)–1
Hence (a) (q), (r)
(b) (p), (t)
(c) (s)
6. Some physical quantities are given in Column I and some possible SI units in which these quantities may be

indicate your answer by darkening appropriate bubbles in the 4

Column I Column II
(a) GMeMs (p) (volt) (coulomb) (metre)
G – universal gravitational constant,
Me – mass of the earth,
Ms – mass of the Sun
3RT
(b) (q) (kilogram) (metre)3 (second)–2
M
R – universal gas constant,
T – absolute temperature,
M – molar mass
F2
(c) (r) (metre)2 (second)–2
q2 B2
F – force, q – charge,
B
GM e
(d) (s) (farad) (volt)2 (kg)–1
Re
G – universal gravitational constant
Me – mass of the earth,
Re – radius of the earth
IIT, 2007
SOLUTION
Gm1m2
6. (a) F = . Therefore the SI unit of G is Nm2 kg–2.
r
SI unit of GMeMs = (Nm2kg–2) kg2 = Nm2 = kg ms–2 m2 = kg m3 s–2.
3RT SI unit of PV SI unit of work
(b) SI unit of = = = Nm kg–1 = kg ms–2 m kg–1 = m2 s–2
M SI unit of M kg
F F2
(c) From F = q v B = SI unit of v. Hence SI unit of 2 2 = (ms–1)2 = m2 s–2
qB q B
GM e Nm 2 kg 2 kg kgms 2
m 2 kg 2 kg
(d) SI unit of = = = m2 s–2
Re m m
(p) Since volt coulomb = work, SI unit of (volt) (coulomb) (metre) = SI unit of work metre = Nm m
= Nm2 = kg ms–2 m2 = kg m3s–2
coulomb
(s) Since farad = and coulomb volt = work, the SI unit of (farad)(volt)2 (kg–1) = (coulomb) (volt)
volt
kg–1 = SI unit of work kg–1 = kg ms–2 m kg–1 = m2s–2
1.24 Comprehensive Physics—JEE Advanced

Hence the correct choices are as follows (c) (r), (s) (d) (r), (s)
(a) (p), (q) (b) (r), (s)

Assertion-Reason Type Questions

In the following questions, Statement-1(Assertion) is Statement-2
followed by Statement-2 (Reason). Each question has The smaller the least count the greater is the num-
the following four options out of which only one choice
is correct. 2. Statement-1
(a) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true and State- The dimensional method cannot be used to obtain
the dependence of the work done by a force on
(b) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true but State- the angle between force and displacement x.
ment-2 is not -
ment-1. Statement-2
(c) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is false. All trignometric functions are dimensionless.
(d) Statement-1 is false, Statement-2 is true. 3. Statement-1
1. Statement-1 The mass of an object is 13.2 kg. In this measure-
The order of accuracy of measurement depends on
the least count of the measuring instrument. Statement-2

SOLUTIONS
1. The correct choice is (b). 3. The correct choice is (c). The degree of accuracy
2. Work done is W = F x cos . since cos is di-
mensionless, the dependence of W on cannot be measurement cannot be increased by changing the
determined by the dimensional method. Hence, the unit.
correct choice is (a)