Finding Units of k in t = k√(h)/d² Equation | Log-Log Graphing Question

In summary, the proportionality statement found was t=k*(sqrt(h))/(d^2), with t in seconds (s), d in centimeters (cm), and h in centimeters (cm). The units for k are s*cm^2/cm^0.5, which can be further simplified if needed.
  • #1
Sorry!
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Question asked to find the units of k after you find the porpotionality statement



i ended up getting
[tex]t\propto\frac{\sqrt{h}}{d^2}[/tex]
so i turned that into an equation and end up with
[tex]t=k\frac{\sqrt{h}}{d^2}[/tex]
solved for and found it on average to be 30 now the question is asking what the units are for k... lol hmm t is in s d and h are in cm

would it be s/cm^1.5 ?? lol..
 
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  • #2
Keep the corresponding units with each number. You will first obtain,
k = (t)*(d^2)/(h^0.5),

Now in that form, show the units and simplify if possible.
 
  • #3
i have no idea what cm^.5 is lol

s*cm2/cm^.5 simplifies?
 
  • #4
Sorry! said:
i have no idea what cm^.5 is lol

s*cm2/cm^.5 simplifies?

Apparantly, t is in units of seconds (s);
d is in units of centimeters (cm);
h is in units of centimeters also (cm).

Not clear is do you need UNITS or DIMENSIONS.

You did not express your units with the proper exponents in your numerator. The "2" needs to be expressed as an exponent. That is the purpose of the "^" symbol.
What you have could be better simplified if needed, using laws of exponents (knowing that you have centimeter^2 as part of your numerator. How you simplify, or if you simplify no further is up to you, or depends on what is expected in your course.
 

FAQ: Finding Units of k in t = k√(h)/d² Equation | Log-Log Graphing Question

What is the purpose of finding units of k in the t = k√(h)/d² equation?

The purpose of finding units of k in this equation is to determine the relationship between time (t), height (h), and distance (d) in an experiment or mathematical model. The value of k represents the proportionality constant and helps to understand how changes in h and d affect the time variable.

Why is it necessary to use a log-log graph when analyzing the t = k√(h)/d² equation?

A log-log graph is necessary because it allows for a more accurate visualization of the relationship between variables that have a nonlinear relationship, such as in this equation. It also helps to identify patterns and trends that may not be visible on a regular graph.

How can we determine the units of k in the t = k√(h)/d² equation?

To determine the units of k, we must first rearrange the equation to isolate k on one side. Then, we can compare the units of t, h, and d with the known units of the square root function. For example, if t is measured in seconds, h in meters, and d in meters, then the units of k would be seconds per meter squared.

Can the value of k change in the t = k√(h)/d² equation?

Yes, the value of k can change depending on the specific experiment or model being analyzed. It is not a constant value and can vary depending on the conditions and variables involved. However, the units of k will remain the same.

How do we use the value of k to make predictions in the t = k√(h)/d² equation?

Using the value of k, we can create an equation or plug in specific values for h and d to calculate the corresponding value of t. This allows us to make predictions about the time variable and understand how changes in h and d will affect it. However, it is important to note that predictions may not always be accurate as there may be other factors involved in the experimental setup.

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