Dimensions and dimension formulas are two major powers used to denote the given quantity. The Dimensional formula of time period is an expression that represents the base quantities included in a relation. The dimensional formula of time period applies for three major applications, including checking for the correction of an equation, converting one system of units into another, and driving the relationship between different sets of physical quantities. Thus, the resulting applications of the dimensional formula of time are wide-ranging and significant.
Meaning of Dimensional Formula of Time Period
The time period is the total amount of time required to complete one vibration. Therefore, the dimensional formula of time period is expressed in terms of mass, length, and time. Mathematically, it is given by [M0 L0 T1].
Here, M stands for Mass, L stands for Length, and T stands for time.
The Dimensional formula of potential energy is another important concept to through as we explore the dimensional formula of the time period. However, to better understand the functionalities, applicability, and dimensional formula of potential energy, it is first necessary to have a basic idea of potential energy. So, let us revisit the fundamental definition of the same.
It is defined as a form of energy held by an object due to its position and relation to other objects, including the stress and electric charge it carries. The function is known as the potential that can be evaluated based on the two positions because the work by the forces acting on a body also depends on these two positions.
However, when it comes to the concept of the dimensional formula of potential energy, it is expressed in terms of mass, gravitational acceleration, and altitude—denoted by the formula M1L2T-2.
Dimension analysis
The foundational concept of dimensions refers to the quantities that can be either subtracted or added with the exact dimension quantities. Similarly, dimension analysis refers to studying relationships between physical quantities depending on their units and dimensions. There are two major types of physical quantities.
Applications of the Dimensional Analysis
Here are some of the applications of the theory of dimensional analysis we discussed above.
Finding the unit of a given physical quantity according to the system of units
We can find the dimensions of a physical quantity by expressing it in terms of the basic quantity. In the dimensional formula we discussed above, any other units of physical quantities can replace the three quantities with a specific name assigned to each.
Example – Suppose we need to find the dimension of force. In this situation, the force will be numerically equal to the product of acceleration and mass. As a result, the resulting quantity will be calculated in terms of force.
Finding the dimensions of coefficients or physical constants
Another vital application of dimensional analysis is calculating the dimension of physical constants and coefficients. This quantity is unique because it is its natural quality, which does not change. If we apply any formula by incorporating the given physical constant, we can easily calculate the dimensions of the given coefficient or constant.
Converting the unit of physical quantity from one system of units to other
Dimensional analysis can also be used to convert a physical quantity belonging to one system of units to another. However, this particular application is based on the given physical quantity and the relationship of magnitude with the unit. Due to this conversion, magnitude also changes with the change in units.
Checking the dimensional accuracy of the given physical relation
This point is based on the principle of dimensions that is decided by the relevance of terms present on both sides of the equation. The two quantities must be the same, and the resultant situation has termed the principle of homogeneity. The equation can be dimensionally correct only if the dimensions present on both sides of the equation are the same.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the dimensional formula of time expresses physical quantities in terms of their basic unit along with their dimensions. The formula is given by [M0 L0 T1]. It also holds great significance in understanding the underlying concepts of the dimensional formula of potential energy and its application. Thus, the dimensional formula of time is a critical concept to be studied as a part of dimensional analysis.