Why eletric charge in Dimensional Analysis and not eletric current?

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of electric charge as a basic physical dimension in Dimensional Analysis, instead of electric current. The second question brings up the proposal by the International Committee for Weights and Measures to revise the definitions of some of the current base units, potentially basing them on fundamental constants like Avogadro or Planck. The question asks for the respondent's opinion on whether the current SI definitions need revisions. The conversation also touches on the relationship between charge and current in relation to relativity, with charge being a more convenient unit due to its lack of dependence on time dilation.
  • #1
ksio.amaral89
3
0
2 questions,actually:

1-Why in Dymensional Analysis is eletric charge a basic physical dimension instead of eletric current(as Ampere is a SI base unit and Coulomb isn't)?

2-I've read CIPM(or International Committee for Weights and Measures in English) is proposing new definitions for some of the current 7 base units,in which the supporters want to set some of the current definitons based on fundamental constants such as Avogadro or Planck constants.For further information:

http://www.bipm.org/cc/CIPM/Allowed/98/CIPM2009_49_TIMING_THE_NEW_SI.pdf

What's your opinion?Do you consider that the current SI definitions need revisions?
 
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  • #2
As you know, current is the rate of flow of charge and therefore the unit of charge is simpler than the unit of current. Relativity has a lot to do with charge being a more convenient unit than current as charge is not affected by time dilation so the Coulomb remains the Coulomb whereas the Ampere depends on your frame of reference.
 

Related to Why eletric charge in Dimensional Analysis and not eletric current?

1. Why is electric charge used in dimensional analysis instead of electric current?

Electric charge is used in dimensional analysis because it is a fundamental physical quantity that is conserved, meaning it remains constant in a closed system. This makes it a more reliable and consistent unit to use in calculations compared to electric current, which is dependent on the amount of charge flowing per unit time.

2. What is the relationship between electric charge and electric current?

Electric current is the rate of flow of electric charge. In other words, it is the amount of charge passing through a given point per unit time. This means that electric charge and electric current are directly related, but electric charge is the more fundamental quantity.

3. Can electric current be converted to electric charge?

No, electric current cannot be converted to electric charge. They are two different physical quantities and cannot be directly converted to one another. However, electric current can cause a change in the amount of electric charge in a system.

4. Why is electric charge measured in coulombs?

The coulomb is the SI unit of electric charge and is defined as the amount of charge that passes through a conductor in one second when a current of one ampere is flowing. It is a convenient unit to use in dimensional analysis and other calculations because it is a large enough unit to measure everyday amounts of charge, but small enough to avoid using large numbers.

5. How does dimensional analysis using electric charge help in solving problems?

Dimensional analysis using electric charge helps in solving problems by allowing for consistency and accuracy in calculations. By using a fundamental physical quantity like electric charge, we can easily convert between different units and ensure that our answers make sense based on the given values. It also helps in simplifying complex equations and identifying any errors in the calculations.

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