How Do Properties of a Particle Affect Its Linear Speed in a Circular Orbit?

In summary, the linear speed (v) of a particle traveling in a circle is directly proportional to the radius (r) of the circle, the angular frequency (\omega) with which the particle orbits about the circle, and the mass (m) of the particle. There is no dimensionless constant involved in the relation. To determine the units of v, one must multiply/divide powers of \omega, r, and m to get m/s.
  • #1
Charli
1
0
1. Homework Statement :
Use dimensional analysis to determine how the linear speed (v in m/s) of a particle traveling in a circle depends on some, or all, of the following properties: r is the radius of the circle; ω is an angular frequency in s-1 with which the particle orbits about the circle, and m is the mass of the particle. There is no dimensionless constant involved in the relation. (Use r for radius, omega for ω, and m for mass in your answer, as necessary.)



2. Homework Equations :



3. The Attempt at a Solution :
My school allows students to take AP Physics as a first year course, though it's designed to be a second year course following Physics Honors. Consequently, I'm lacking some background.

I took AP Calc AB/BC last year (passed the test with 3s in both AB and BC). Also, I've taken a bit of introductory physics as part of the NJROTC program at my school, and through that and reading through a bit of The Principles of Naval Engineering, I can understand physics fairly well when it's explained a bit. I tried to find a dimensional analysis tutorial on this site, but I wasn't having much success.

If someone could point me in the right direction or walk me through this problem, that would be wonderful.

The deadline for the assignment this question is on is 23:59 30Aug09.
 
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  • #2
Hi Charli, welcome to PF!:smile:

Hint: What are the units of [itex]\omega[/itex]? What are the units of [itex]r[/itex]? What are the units of [itex]m[/itex]? How would you multiply/divide powers of [itex]\omega[/itex], [itex]r[/itex] and [itex]m[/itex] together to get something with units of [itex]v[/itex] (m/s)?
 

FAQ: How Do Properties of a Particle Affect Its Linear Speed in a Circular Orbit?

What is dimensional analysis and why is it useful?

Dimensional analysis is a mathematical method used to convert between different units of measurement. It is useful because it allows scientists to easily compare and manipulate data that may be expressed in different units, making it easier to analyze and draw conclusions from the data.

How do you approach a dimensional analysis problem?

The first step in approaching a dimensional analysis problem is to clearly identify the given unit of measurement and the desired unit of measurement. Then, determine the conversion factors necessary to convert from one unit to the other. Finally, use the conversion factors in a series of fractions, cancelling out units until the desired unit is achieved.

What are some common conversion factors used in dimensional analysis?

Some common conversion factors used in dimensional analysis include the metric system prefixes (such as kilo, centi, and milli), conversion between different units of length, mass, volume, time, and temperature, and conversion between units used in different scientific fields (such as energy, pressure, and concentration).

Can dimensional analysis be used for complex calculations?

Yes, dimensional analysis can be used for complex calculations as long as the units are consistent throughout the calculation. This method can be particularly useful in solving problems in chemistry, physics, and engineering.

How can dimensional analysis help to avoid errors in scientific calculations?

Dimensional analysis can help to avoid errors in scientific calculations by ensuring that the units are consistent throughout the calculation. This method also allows for easy error-checking, as the final unit of the calculation should match the desired unit. Additionally, dimensional analysis can help to avoid errors when converting between units, as it ensures that the correct conversion factors are used.

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