Maths Skills
Before we start we need to lay some ground work. The first is understanding the mathematical principles involved in physics, the second is understanding the scientific process.
Mathematics is the language of physics. When scientists conduct experiments they measure. Establish relationships. So it is important to know how we measure and how we establish those relationships. Following few lessons examine some important principles in
Mathematics is the language of physics. When scientists conduct experiments they measure. Establish relationships. So it is important to know how we measure and how we establish those relationships. Following few lessons examine some important principles in
- what we measure
- how we measure
- how we represent our values and
- how we establish relationships.
Dimensions and Units
In order to develop models in Physics we have to measure. So we need to know what to measure and how we measure.
A dimension is a measurable quantity. A few examples, include, mass, velocity, time, temperature and force.
There are many more.
Once we know what to measure we need to decide how we measure it. The unit is the standard we use to measure things
Take for example, the dimension of length. We can measure it in a variety of units: metre, mile, inch, even light \year. All are standards that we could use to measure length.
Each dimension has an associated set of possible units
In order to develop models in Physics we have to measure. So we need to know what to measure and how we measure.
A dimension is a measurable quantity. A few examples, include, mass, velocity, time, temperature and force.
There are many more.
Once we know what to measure we need to decide how we measure it. The unit is the standard we use to measure things
Take for example, the dimension of length. We can measure it in a variety of units: metre, mile, inch, even light \year. All are standards that we could use to measure length.
Each dimension has an associated set of possible units
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This of course creates a problem: how can scientists compare experiments if they end up using different units? For example, if one measure a room in inches, they are going to get a different value if someone else uses metres. This leads to the development of an international standard set of units, called SI units. Watch the video as I discuss these topics. |
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Test your understanding
