College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 1 - Measurement and Problem Solving - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Exercises - Page 28: 11

Answer

$a$ has unit $m^{-1}$. $b$ is dimensionless. $c$ has unit $m$.

Work Step by Step

For the equation $y=ax^2+bx+c$, LHS has $y$ with SI unit $m$. In RHS, to ensure correct unit analysis, all components must have Si unit $m$. $x^2$ has SI unit $m^2$. Thus, $a$ has unit $m/m^2$ = $m^{-1}$. $bx$ has SI unit $m$. Thus, $b$ is dimensionless. $c$ has SI unit $m$.
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