What is dimensional analysis and how is it used?

When one is faced with a problem requiring derivation of an equation, they might be asked to use dimensional analysis. This is a concept that involves analyzing the units of known quantities (usually it is easy to work in SI, one could work out these base quantities like mass in kg, distance in m, time in s, etc. by using more basic known equations) using the fact that any physically meaningful equation has the same dimensions (units, factors) on the left and the right side. 

Answered by Christina I. Physics tutor

1463 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Where does the simple harmonic motion equation come from and what does it mean?


Why does gravitational potential energy have a negative value?


What is the Young's modulus of a material?


Define Simple Harmonic Motion


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences