Solving a Physics Problem: Finding the Right Units

In summary, when finding the units to a physics problem, it is important to first put the given values in base units. In this case, since the given values include Newtons, which is equivalent to kg m s^-2, the kg and m units within the square root cancel out, leaving the final units of s^-1 or 1/s, which is equivalent to m/s. This is because the problem is asking for velocity, which is always measured in m/s.
  • #1
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i just need help with finding the units to a physics problem at the end. some examples...


[tex]\sqrt{\frac{940N/m}{0.038kg}}*(0.25m)[/tex]

it comes out to 39m/s.

i know that since it's velocity, it should always be m/s. but there are some question that i don't really know what the final units should be.

without the numbers...
[tex]\sqrt{\frac{N/m}{kg}}*(m)[/tex]
it doesn't seem like anything can be canceled out because the units are being sqrtrooted.
 
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  • #2
Put Newtons in base units, N = kg m s^-2 and you'll see everything inside the square root cancels out, besides the s^-2.
 
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When solving a physics problem, it is important to pay attention to the units involved in the given values and the final answer. Units act as a guide to ensure that the calculations are done correctly and the final answer is in the correct form. In the given example, the units for force are Newtons (N) and for mass are kilograms (kg). To find the units for the final answer, we can use the method of dimensional analysis.

First, let's look at the given expression: \sqrt{\frac{940N/m}{0.038kg}}*(0.25m). We can see that the numerator has units of N/m (force per unit length) and the denominator has units of kg (mass). When we take the square root, the units of N/m and kg will also be square rooted. This means that the final units for the expression will be \sqrt{\frac{N}{m}}*\sqrt{kg}*m. To simplify this, we can rewrite it as \sqrt{N}*m.

Now, let's consider the example without numbers: \sqrt{\frac{N/m}{kg}}*(m). Here, we can see that the units for force are still N/m and for mass are kg. When we take the square root, the units will be \sqrt{\frac{N}{m}}*\sqrt{kg}. This cannot be simplified any further as the units are being square rooted. Therefore, the final units for this expression will be \sqrt{N}*m.

In conclusion, when solving a physics problem, it is important to pay attention to the units involved and use dimensional analysis to determine the units for the final answer. In some cases, the units may not cancel out and the final answer will have a combination of units. However, as long as the units are correct and consistent, the final answer will be accurate.
 

FAQ: Solving a Physics Problem: Finding the Right Units

Can I use any units I want to solve a physics problem?

No, it is important to use the correct units when solving a physics problem. Using incorrect units can lead to incorrect answers and confusion.

How do I know which units to use in a physics problem?

The units used in a physics problem will depend on the quantities given in the problem. It is important to pay attention to the units given in the problem and use units that are compatible with those quantities.

Can I convert between units when solving a physics problem?

Yes, it is often necessary to convert between units in order to solve a physics problem. Make sure to use conversion factors and pay attention to the units as you solve the problem.

What are some common units used in physics problems?

Some common units used in physics problems include meters (m) for distance, seconds (s) for time, kilograms (kg) for mass, and newtons (N) for force. Other units may also be used depending on the problem.

Why is it important to use units when solving a physics problem?

Using units when solving a physics problem helps to keep track of the quantities and their relationships in the problem. It also allows for consistency and accuracy in the final answer.

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