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Introduction To Dimensional Analysis IV

The document discusses using dimensional analysis to derive equations. It introduces dimensional analysis and provides three examples of how it can be used to derive relationships between physical quantities. Specifically, it shows the derivations of equations for the time period of a pendulum, speed of sound in a medium, and period of a simple harmonic oscillator based only on the dimensions of the relevant variables. The author concludes that dimensional analysis is a useful tool for establishing fundamental equations governing various physical phenomena.

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45 views8 pages

Introduction To Dimensional Analysis IV

The document discusses using dimensional analysis to derive equations. It introduces dimensional analysis and provides three examples of how it can be used to derive relationships between physical quantities. Specifically, it shows the derivations of equations for the time period of a pendulum, speed of sound in a medium, and period of a simple harmonic oscillator based only on the dimensions of the relevant variables. The author concludes that dimensional analysis is a useful tool for establishing fundamental equations governing various physical phenomena.

Uploaded by

Beta Mathematica
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Using Dimensional Analysis to Derive Equations

David Nyirenda
Malawi University of Science and Technology

David Nyirenda Malawi University of Science Using


and Technology
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Using Dimensional Analysis to Derive Equations

Introduction: Dimensional analysis is a powerful technique used in


physics and engineering to derive relationships between physical quantities.
By analyzing the dimensions of different variables, we can establish
fundamental equations that govern various phenomena.
Author Information: David Nyirenda is a physicist and educator at the
Malawi University of Science and Technology. He specializes in theoretical
physics and has a passion for teaching and research.
Objective: In this presentation, we will demonstrate three basic examples
of how dimensional analysis can be used to derive equations.

David Nyirenda Malawi University of Science Using


and Technology
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Example 1: Time Period of a Pendulum

Objective: Derive an equation for the time period (T ) of a pendulum


based on its length (L) and gravitational acceleration (g ).
Step 1: Identify the relevant variables: T , L, and g .
Step 2: Express the equation in terms of dimensions: [T ] = [L]a [g ]b .
Step 3: Solve for
q the exponents a and b using dimensional analysis.
Result: T = k gL , where k is a dimensionless constant.

David Nyirenda Malawi University of Science Using


and Technology
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Analysis Using Dimensional Analysis: Simple Pendulum

Problem: Assuming the period of oscillation of a simple pendulum T


depends on the mass of the object m, the length of the pendulum l, and
the acceleration due to gravity g , use the theory of dimensional analysis to
show that the mass of the object is not relevant. Then find a suitable
expression for the period of oscillation in terms of the other variables.
Solution:
Given relationship: T = kma g b l c
Assigning dimensions: [T ] = T , [m] = M, [g ] = LT −2 , [l] = L
Equating dimensions: T = [m]a [g ]b [l]c = M a (LT −2 )b Lc

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and Technology
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By comparing dimensions, we get:

a=0

(mass is irrelevant)
−2b = 0
(for time dimension to cancel)

1+c =0

(for length dimension to cancel)


Solving these equations, we find: a = 0, b = − 12 , c = 1
2
q
Thus, T = K gl , where K is a constant.

David Nyirenda Malawi University of Science Using


and Technology
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Example 2: Speed of Sound in a Medium

Objective: Derive an equation for the speed of sound (v ) in a medium


based on its density (ρ) and bulk modulus (B).
Step 1: Identify the relevant variables: v , ρ, and B.
Step 2: Express the equation in terms of dimensions: [v ] = [ρ]a [B]b .
Step 3: Solveqfor the exponents a and b using dimensional analysis.
Result: v = Bρ , where B is a dimensionless constant.

David Nyirenda Malawi University of Science Using


and Technology
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Example 3: Period of a Simple Harmonic Oscillator

Objective: Derive an equation for the period (T ) of a simple harmonic


oscillator based on its mass (m) and spring constant (k).
Step 1: Identify the relevant variables: T , m, and k.
Step 2: Express the equation in terms of dimensions: [T ] = [m]a [k]b .
Step 3: Solve forpthe exponents a and b using dimensional analysis.
m
Result: T = 2π k , where 2π is a dimensionless constant.

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and Technology
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Conclusion

Summary:
Dimensional analysis is a useful tool for deriving equations based on
fundamental principles.
By analyzing the dimensions of relevant variables, we can establish
relationships between physical quantities.
The derived equations provide valuable insights into the behavior of
various systems.
Future Work:
Explore more complex systems and derive equations using dimensional
analysis.
Apply the derived equations to real-world problems in physics and
engineering.
Thank You!

David Nyirenda Malawi University of Science Using


and Technology
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