Units and Measurements 15

1
Unit I: Physical World and Measurement

Chapter
Units and Measurements
Mind map
Units and Measurement Dimensional analysis Continued to*

Physical Quantity Measurement (Q) is the process

Quantities which describe physical
phenomenon or physical property
of body.
Fundamental or basic physical
quantity are independent of other,
e.g. mass, length, time, temperature,
luminous intensity, electric current,
amount of substance.
Derived physical quantity
Physical quantity derived from the
fundamental quantity, e.g. velocity
momentum, acceleration, torque etc.
of comparison with some standard
chosen magnitude.
Unit (u) standard chosen magnitude
of a quantity. It is Q = nu
n is numerical value
Significant figures
Digits of measurement that are
known plus one uncertain digit are
known as significant figures.
System of measurement
It is set of fundamental and derived physical
quantity and their units.
FPS System
Uses foot, pound and second as unit of
length, mass and time respectively.
CGS System
Uses centimetre, gram and second as unit
of length, mass and time respectively.

International system of units (SI
system)
It includes seven basic units and
two supplementary units.
  Quantity SI units
1. Length – Metre (m)
2. Mass – Kilogram (kg)
3. Time – Second (s)
4. Electric – Ampere (A)
current
5. Temperature – Kelvin (k)
6. Amount of – Mole (mol)
substance
7. Luminous – Candela (cd)
intensity
Supplementary unit
1. Plane angle – Radian (rad)
2. Solid angle – Steradian (sr)
MKS System
Uses metre, kilogram and second as unit
of length, mass and time.
Important Practical units
• Astronomical unit (AU): Mean distance
of the earth from sun.
1 AU = 1.496 × 1011 m
• Light year: Distance travelled by light in
vacuum in one year.
1 ly = 9.46 × 1015 m
• Parsec: Distance at which an arc of
length 1 AU subtends an angle of
1 second.
1 parsec = 3.26 ly
• Solar day: Time taken by ear th to
complete one rotation about its axis
with respect to sun.
• Solar year: Time taken by ear th to
complete one revolution around the sun
in its orbit.
• Lunar month: Time taken by the moon
to complete one revolution around earth
in its orbit.
16 Together with®  Physics—11

Dimensional analysis
*Continued from previous page Dimensions of a physical quantity are powers to
which the units of base quantity are raised, e.g.
[M]a [L]b [T]c [A]d [K]e

Applications Limitations

Checking the correctness of various Conversion of one system of unit Deducing relation among physical
formulae. into another quantity.
n1u1 = n2u2

Physical quantity equation will be

dimensionally correct if the dimensions
of all the terms occuring on both sides
of the equations are same.

Does not give any information Does not give information For derivation of formula, it Formulae cannot be derived
whether physical quantity is about the dimensionless is limited to four quantities for trigonometric and
scalar or vector. constant. only. logarithmic functions.

Topic covered
Measurement of Physical Quantities and their Units

4. In British system of units, mass is measured in

Multiple Choice
(a) pound. (b) foot.
Questions 1 Mark
(c) kilogram. (d) quintal.
1. The laws of physics can be expressed in terms of 5. Which system of units was adopted as the 11th General
(a) abstract quantities. (b) physical quantities. Conference of Weights and Measures in 1960?
(c) fundamental quantities. (d) derived quantities. (a) CGS system (b) FPS system
2. Which of the following is not an example of (c) MKS system (d) SI system
fundamental quantity?
6. Which of the following system of units is not a metric
(a) Luminous quantity. system?
(b) Electric current. (a) CGS system (b) FPS system
(c) Electric charge. (c) MKS system (d) SI system
(d) Amount of substance.
7. The unit of charge is:
3. How is the numerical value (n) of a measure related (a) Ampere
to the size of its unit (u) in physics?
(b) Coulomb
(a) n ∝ u (b) n ∝ u2
(c) Ampere/sec
1 1
(c) n ∝ (d) n ∝ (d) Ampere-second
u 2 u
 Units and Measurements 17
8. The units of electrical permittivity are: Ans. (i) 6.67 × 10−8 cm3 g−1 s−2
(a) N –1m–2C2 (b) Nm –2C2 (ii) 1.06 × 10−16
(c) C2/Nm2 (d) n/Cm2 (iii) 21.6
(iv) 107
Answers
12. If x = at + bt2, where x is in metre and t in hour, what
will be the unit of ‘a’ and ‘b’?
1. (b)
2. (c) Electric charge Ans. x = at + bt2
So, the units of a = x = m/hr
3. (d) t
4. (a) and b = x2 = m/(hr)2
t
5. (d)
6. (b) 13. Define order of magnitude of a physical quantity.
What is the order of magnitude of a measure:
7. (b, d)
0.0000000737 kg?
Unit of charge = Coulomb = Ampere × Sec
Ans. The power of 10 is closest to the magnitude of a physical
8. (a, c)
quantity is called its order of magnitude.
1 q1q2
From F =
4πε r 2 0.0000000737 kg = 7.37 × 10–8 kg

C2 q1q2 = 0.737 × 10–7 kg

e= = = N–1m–2C2
4πFr 2 Nm 2 Here, 0.5 < 0.737 < 5
Thus, order of magnitude is –7.
A Short Answer Type [I]
S Questions 2 Marks A Short Answer Type [II]
S Questions 3 Marks
9. Write the order of following lengths in metres.
(i) Radius of the earth 14. Define the following terms
(ii) The height of average man (a) Light year (b) Parsec
(iii) Thickness of sheet of paper (c) Astronomical unit
(iv) The radius of hydrogen atom Ans. (a) Light year is defined as the distance travelled by
Ans. (i) 6.4 × 106 m (ii) 1.8 × 100 m light in vacuum in one year.
(iii) 1 × 10−4 m (iv) 5 × 10−11 m 1 ly = 9.467 × 1015 m
10. Write the order of following. (b) Parsec (Parallactic second): Parsec is the distance
(i) Mass of a housefly at which the average radius of the earth’s orbit
(ii) Mass of average man subtends an angle of 1 arc second. It is the largest
used unit of distance in space.
(iii) Mass of an electron
1 parsec = 3.08 × 1016 m
(iv) Mass of the earth
Also, 1 parsec = 3.26 light years
Ans. (i) 1 × 10−4 kg
Sun
(ii) 7 × 101 kg
(iii) 9.1 × 10−31 kg 1 AU  
24
(iv) 6 × 10 kg 1” Earth
11. Fill in the blanks by suitable conversions. parsec

(i) G = 6.67 × 10–11 Nm2kg–2 = ............. cm3 s–2 g–1 (c) Astronomical unit: It is the mean distance between
(ii) 1 m = ........ light year sun and earth.
(iii) 6 ms–2 = ...... kmh–2 1 AU = 1.496 × 1011 m.
2 –2 2 –2
(iv) 1 kg m s = ...... g cm s
18 Together with®  Physics—11

A Long Answer Two supplementary SI units:

L Type Question 5 Marks (a) Radian (rad): Plane angle subtended by an arc of
length equal to radius, at the centre of the circle.
15. Name and define the basic and supplementary SI
Arc l
units used in physics. [q = = ]
radius r
Ans. Seven basic SI units:
(b) Steradian (sr): Solid angle subtended at the centre
(a) Metre (m): One metre is defined as the length of
of a sphere by a surface having area equal to a square
path travelled by light in d n th of a
1
whose side is equal to radius of the sphere.
299, 792, 458
second in vaccum. Surface area
[W = ]
(b) Second(s): It is the duration of 9,192,631,770 radius 2
periods of radiation corresponding to transition
between two hyperfine levels of ground state of P Numerical Problem
Cs-133 atoms. N
(c) Kilogram(kg): One kilogram is equal to the mass
16. Calculate the angle of
of a platinum-iridium alloy cylinder having height
equal to its diameter. (a) 5 degree, (b) 58’
(c) 10” of arc in radians.
(d) Ampere (A): One ampere current is the amount of
current, which can produce a force of 2 × 10–7 N  (360° = 2p rad, 1° = 60’, 1’ = 60”)
per metre of length between two parallel straight Ans. (a) 360° = 2p
conductors of negligible cross section and infinite 2π
1° = rad = 1.745 × 10–2 rad
length, placed 1 m apart in vacuum. 360
1
(e) Kelvin(K): One kelvin is the fraction d n th 5° = 5 ×
2π
rad =
π
rad = 8.725 × 10–2 rad
273.16 360 36
of thermodynamic temperature of triple point of
water. (b) 1° = 60’
= 1.745 × 10–2 rad
(f) Candela (cd): The SI unit of luminous intensity,
1’ = (1.745 × 10–2/60) rad
one cd equals luminous intensity is a direction, in
which a source emits monochromatic radiation of 58 × 1.745 × 10 −2 1.012
58’ = = rad
frequency 540 × 1012 Hz, having radiant intensity 60 60
1 = 1.687 × 10–2 rad
of watt per steradian in same direction.
683 (c) 1’ = 60”
(g) Mole (mol): The amount of substance that contains = 2.908 × 10–4 rad
as many entities (atoms, ions, molecules etc) as these 1” = 4.847 × 10–6 rad
are atoms in 0.012 kg of C-12 isotope of carbon. 10” = 4.847 × 10–5 rad

Practice questions
1. Which of the following sets cannot enter into the list of (c) Energy: kg m/s
fundamental quantities in any system of units? (d) Pressure: N/m2
(a) Length, time and velocity 3. Distinguish between fundamental quantities and derived
(b) Length, mass and velocity quantities.
(c) Mass, time and velocity 4. State the order of magnitude of a light year when written
in terms of metres.
(d) Length, time and mass
5. Calculate the solid angle subtended by the periphery of
2. Which one of the following quantities has not been
an area of 1 cm2 at a point situated symmetrically at a
expressed in proper units?
distance of 5 cm from the area.
(a) Coeff. of elasticity: N/m2
(b) Surface tension: N/m
 Units and Measurements 19

TopicS covered
Direct and Indirect Methods of Measuring Length, Mass and Time

4. Briefly describe the triangulation method used for

Multiple Choice
measuring height of a distant cliff.
Questions 1 Mark Ans. Let the cliff be AB, having height h. A sextant is used
1. Which of the following is not a device used for direct to measure the angle of elevation A

measurement of length? of its peak (q1) from point C on

(a) Vernier Callipers (b) Screw gauge ground. From point D, let angle h
of elevation be q 2 , so that q2 q1
(c) Electrical oscillator (d) Spherometer
CD = d. D d C x B
2. Which of the following is an indirect method of x
measuring length? Now, cot q1 =  (in DABC)
h
(a) Triangulation method x+d
and cot q2 =  (in DACD)
(b) Parallax method h
(c) Avogadro’s hypothesis method d+x x d
cot q2 – cot q1 = − =
h h h
(d) All of these
d
⇒ h=
Answers cot θ 2 − cot θ1

1. (c)    2. (d)
A Short Answer Type [II]
S Questions 3 Marks
A Short Answer Type [I] 5. Define parallax. Describe parallax method to
S Questions 2 Marks
determine the distance of a nearby star from the
3.
Find the height of a rock mountain, if the angle of earth.
elevation of its top increases from 30° to 45° on moving Ans. The apparent shift of the position of an object w.r.t.
100 m towards the rock in the horizontal direction another object or background, due to shift in our eye
through the base of the rock. position is called parallax.
A
Ans. To find distance of a star by parallax method, consider a
distant star, say X be a reference for background, whose
h
position remains fixed for all positions of the earth in
30° 45° its orbit.
D C x B
100 X N X

In ∆ ABC, h = tan 45° ⇒ h = x

q1
x q2
h
In ∆ abd, = tan 30° d
100 + x
h 1 q1 q2
=
100 + h 3 A B
C
3 h = 100 + h
100 Let the star whose distance from earth is to be found,
h = be at point N.
3 −1
= 50 ^ 3 + 1h = 136.5 m
Consider two points A and B on earth’s orbit, which
subtend angle q at the star at N.
20 Together with®  Physics—11
Parallax angles between distant star X and nearby star say m is kept on the pan, it begins to oscillate, the
N at points A and B are given by ∠XAN = q1 and time period of oscillation, T is proportional to square
∠XBN = q2. root of mass m.
Total parallax angle = q1 + q2 = q = ∠ANB T∝ m
Arc AB Pan
Now, q = =
Radius d
Mass
Or  d = AB/q
This method can be used to find distance of stars which Clamp

are less than 100 light years away from the earth.
For two mass m 1 and m 2, (where, say m 2 is a
6. Describe how will you find the size of a molecule of standard known mass) let time periods be T1 and
oleic acid (a length of order of 10–9 m). T2 respectively.
Ans. To determine a small length of order of 10–9 m, oleic
T1 2
 or  m1 = m = e o
acid is selected because its molecule is large. Following T1 m1
Thus, =
procedure is performed for this experiment: T2 m2 T2
(i) In 20 cm3 of alcohol, dissolve 1 cm3 of oleic acid. Measurement of gravitational mass: A common

(ii) Again, take 1 cm3 of this solution and dissolve in physical balance, which works on the principle of
20 cm3 of alcohol. moments is used to measure gravitational mass.
1 The unknown mass is kept on one pan of physical
Now, concentration of oleic acid =
20 × 20 balance and standard weight is placed in the other
1
= d n cm2 in 1 cm2 of a drop. pan. The weights are adjusted till the beam becomes
400
horizontal over the knife edge. A spring balance is
Let volume of each drop = V cm3.
employed to measure gravitational mass of a body.
(iii) Pour n drops of solution on surface of water in a
broad trough. Stretch the film carefully.
(iv) Let alcohol evaporate from the surface. A thin film P Numerical Problems
N
of oleic acid remains on the surface. This thin film
is assumed to be molecule thick. 8. In an attempt to estimate the distance of a nearby
(v) Measure the area(A) of film using graph paper. tower, a person stands at a point and selects a very
(vi) Volume of n drops of solution = nV distant cliff in line with the tower. He then moves to
nV another point away from foot of tower. The line of
Amount of oleic acid in this volume = cm2.
400 sight of distant object remains the same, but that of
Volume of film the tower shifts by angle 30°. What is this angle 30°
Thickness of oil film =
Area of film called? If the person moved a distance of 50 m,
estimate the height of tower.
= <d n × F cm
nV 1

400 A Ans. Let tower be AB and
distant object be O. A

A Long Answer Angle q = 30° is called 30°

L Type Question 5 Marks parallax angle from the h
figure, it is clear that
7. (a) Distinguish between inertial mass and gravita- q
AB = h = 50/tan 30°
tional mass of a body. B C
= 86.60 m. 50 m
(b) How is the inertial mass and gravitational mass
⸫ Height of tower is 86.60 m.
measured?
9. The angular diameter of a massive star is 54”. If it
Ans. (a) Inertial mass of a body is a measure of its inertia in
is located at a distance of 3.484 × 1022 m from the
translatory motion. It is measured by an inertial balance.
earth, find its diameter.
Gravitational mass determines the gravitational pull Ans. Angular diameter, q = 54°
exerted on a body due to the earth. It is measured = 54 × 4.85 × 10–6
by a physical balance. = 2.619 × 10–4 rad
(b) Measurement of inertial mass: In an inertial Diameter of star = qd
balance, a pan is attached to a metallic strip whose = 2.619 × 10–4 × 3.484 × 1022
other end is clamped on a surface. When a mass, = 9.125 × 1018 m
 Units and Measurements 21

Practice questions
1. Relate the following units of length with its SI unit:
(a) fermi (b) angstrom
(c) micron (d) nanometre
2. An accessible tree has angle of elevation 30° when
observed from ground at a distance of 25 m. Find the
height of the tree.
3. How will you measure diameter of moon from a point
on earth?

Topic covered
Dimensions of a Physical Quantity

7. Which of the following combinations have the

Multiple Choice
dimensions of time? L, C, R represent inductance,
Questions 1 Mark capacitance and resistance respectively?
1. Which of the following have same dimensions? (a) RC (b) LC
(a) Specific heat and latent heat (c) R/L (d) C/L
(b) Momentum and impulse 8. The dimensions of capacitance are (where Q is the
(c) Moment of inertia and moment of momentum. dimension of charge):
(d) Tension and surface tension. (a) M –1L–2T2Q2 (b) MLT –2Q–2
2. Which of the following is a dimensional constant? (c) M 1L–1T2 (d) M –1L–2T2Q
(a) Refractive index (b) Dielectric constant 9. The pairs of physical quantities that have the same
(c) Relative density (d) Gravitational constant. dimensions are:
3. The dimensional formula for latent heat is (a) Reynolds number and coefficient of friction
(a) M°L2T –1 (b) ML2T –1 (b) Latent heat and gravitational potential
(c) MLT –2 (d) ML2T –2 (c) Curie and frequency of light wave
4. The velocity v of a particle is given in terms of time (d) Planck’s constant and torque.
b
t is v = at +
t+c Answers
The dimensions of a, b, c are
(a) L2; TLT –2 (b) LT2; LT; L 1. (b)
(c) LT –2; L; T (d) L; LT; T2 2. (d)
a
5. In the standard equation Snth = u + [2n – 1], what 3. (a)
2
dimensions do you view for Snth? 4. (c) As c is added to t, therefore, c has the dimensions
(a) M°L1T° (b) M°L –1 T 1 of [T]
(c) M°L1T –1 (d) M°L°T 1 b
As, =v
t
6. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer:
\ b = v × t = LT –1 × T = [L]
List I List II
v LT –1
A. Spring constant 1. M1L2T –2 from v = at, a = = = [LT –2]
t T
B. Pascal 2. M0 L0 T –1 5. (c)
C. Hertz 3. M1L0T –2 F MLT –2
6. (a) Spring constant =
= = [M1L0T –2]
D. Joule 4. M1L –1T –2 x L
(a) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1 (b) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2 Pascal = unit of pressure
(c) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1 (d) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
22 Together with®  Physics—11

F
=
MLT –2
= [ML–1T –2] Ans. K.E = 1 mv2
2 2 –2
a L2 Dimension of K.E = [ML T ]
Hertz = unit of frequency = [M0 L0 T –1]
(i) Dimension of 3 mv2 = [ML2 T–2]
Joule = unit of work = [M1L2T –2] 16
3
7. (a, b) Since dimensions of K.E = dimensions of mv 2
16
We know, R = [M1L2T –3A–2] It is dimensionally correct.
1
L = [M1L2T –2A–2] (ii) mv 2 + ma
2
C = [M –1L–2T4A2] Dimensions = [ML2T–2] + [MLT–2]
\ RC = T and LC = T which is dimensionally incorrect.
Q Q
8. (a) C = = = [M–1L–2T2Q2] 13. (a) When white light travels through glass the
2 −
V ML T /Q 2
refractive index µ = c m
Velocity of light in air
9. (a, b, c) Velocity of light in glass
(a) Reynolds number and coefficient of friction, both is found to vary with wavelength as µ = A + B2 ,
are dimensionless. λ
where A and B are constants. Using the principle
Q ML2 T –2
(b) L = = = [L2T –2] of homogeneity of dimensions, determine the SI
m M
W ML2 T –2 unit in which A and B must be expressed.
Gravitational Potential = = = [L2T –2]
m M (b) If Length, Time and Energy are fundamental
(c) 1 curie = 3.7 × 1010 disintegrations/sec = T –1 units, find the dimension of mass.
Frequency = T –1 Ans. (a) A is a constant and have no unit and SI unit of B
is m2.
A Short Answer Type [I] (b) K.E. = E = 1 mv2
S Questions 2 Marks 2
[M] = ; 2 E = [EL T ]
E –2 +2
10. Give the dimensional formula for surface energy,
v
moment of inertia, angular velocity and gravitational 2 –2 –2 2
= [ML T L T ] = [M]
force.
14. Out of formulae (i) y = a sin 2pt/T and (ii) y = a sin vt
Ans. Dimensional formula for:
for the displacement y of a particle undergoing a
Surface energy = [ML2 T–2] certain periodic motion, rule out the wrong formula
Moment of inertia = [ML2] on dimensional grounds.
Angular velocity = [T–1] [where a = maximum displacement of the particle,
Gravitational force = [MLT–2] v = speed of the particle, T = time period of motion.]
Ans. (i) 2πt have dimensions M L T
0 0 0
11. Check whether equation
T
F.S = 1 mv − 1 mu is dimensionally correct, where
2 2
\ y = a Hence correct.
2 2 0 1 0
m is mass of the body, v its final velocity, u its initial (ii) vt have dimensions M L T not dimensionless,
velocity, F is force applied and S is the distance moved. so it is wrong.
Ans. F.S = 1 mv2 – 1 mu2
2 2 A Short Answer Type [II]
2 –2 S Questions 3 Marks
L.H.S = [ML T ]
R.H.S = 1 [M][LT ] – 1 [M] [LT ]
–1 2 –1 2 15. The time of oscillation t of a small drop of liquid
2 2 under surface tension depends upon the density r,
2 –2 2 –2 2 –2
[ML T ] = [ML T ] – [ML T ] radius r and surface tension s. Show dimensionally
L.H.S = R.H.S that: [NCT 2016]
Which is dimensionally correct. ρr 3
t =
12. Rule out or accept the following formulae for kinetic σ
energy on the basis of dimensional arguments: ρr 3
Ans. Given: t =  where, r = density, r = radius,
(i) 3 mv
2
(ii) 1 mv2 + ma σ
16 2 s = surface tension
 Units and Measurements 23
 [r] = [ML–3]; [s] = [MT–2], [r] = [L]
Solving these equations we get,
1 −3 3 1/2 b = 1, a = 6 and c = −3
ML L
∴ R.H.S. = >
H 6 1 −3
M1L°T −2 ∴ m = kv ρ g
1 1/2 m ∝ v6
= = −2 G = T 2× 2 = T
1

T Thus, the mass (m) varies as the sixth power of velocity

L.H.S. = time of oscillation t of a small (v) of the flow.
drop of liquid = T
\ L.H.S. = R.H.S. A Long Answer
L Type Questions 5 Marks
16. Name the physical quantity of the dimension given
below: 19. The time of oscillation (t) of a small drop of liquid
0 –3 – –
(i) ML T (ii) ML 1T 1 under surface tension depends upon the density ρ,
–1 3 –2 2 –3
(iii) M L T (iv) ML T radius r and surface tension (σ).
0 –2 –1
(v) ML T (vi) T 3
ρr
Ans. (i) Energy intensity Prove dimensionally that t ∝ .
σ
(ii) Coeff. of viscosity
Ans. Time of oscillation t ∝ ρa rb σc
(iii) Gravitational Constant

∴ t = kρarbσc, where k = constant
(iv) Power
(v) Surface tension or force constant or spring factor. Writing dimensions of both the sides, we have,
(vi) Frequency [T] = [ML−3]a [L]b [MT−2]c
17. State the principle of homogeneity of dimensions. Test = [Ma + c L−3a + b T−2c]
the dimensional homogeneity of the following equation: Comparing the powers of M, L and T on both sides,
1 2
h = h0 + v0t + gt . we have,
2
Ans. Principle of Homogenity – All terms of any physical a + c = 0 ...(i)
relation must have the same dimensions. −3a + b = 0 ...(ii)
[h] = L
−2c = 1 ...(iii)
[h0] = L Solving equations (i), (ii) and (iii) we get,
[v0t] = LT–1 T = L a = 1 , c = – 1 and b = 3
2 2 2
; gt E = LT T = L
1 2 –2 2
  Putting these values in
2
So, the equation is dimensionally correct. t = kρarbσc
18
Assuming that the mass (m) of the largest stone We get t = kρ1/2 r3/2 σ−1/2
that can be moved by a flowing river depends only
upon the velocity v, the density ρ of water and the ρr 3
or t ∝
acceleration due to gravity g. Show that m varies, σ
with the sixth power of the velocity of the flow. 20. Liquid is flowing steadily through a pipe. Assume
that the volume of the liquid flowing out per second
Ans. Let m ∝ v a ρb gc
depends on (a) the coefficient of viscosity of the liquid (η)
∴ m = kvaρbgc, where k is constant
(b) the radius of the pipe (r) and (c) the pressure
Taking the dimensions of various physical quantities gradient along the pipe (pressure gradient is drop in
on both the sides, we have, pressure per unit length of the pipe, and is equal to
[M] = [LT−1]a[ML−3]b[LT−2]c P/l, where P is the difference between the ends of the
= [MbLa − 3b + c T−a−2c] pipe and l is the length of the pipe). The dimensions
Comparing the powers of M, L and T on both the sides, of viscosity is [ML–1T–1]. Deduce by the method of
we have dimensions, the formula for the volume of the liquid
b = 1 ...(i) flowing out per second.
a − 3b + c = 0 ...(ii) Ans. Let V be the volume of liquid flowing out steadily
− a − 2c = 0 ...(iii) through the pipe per second
24 Together with®  Physics—11
P c Writing the dimensions of both the sides, we have
Given : V ∝ ηarb c m a b −2 c
l [T] = [M] L [LT ]
c a b +c
a b P
V = kη r c m
−2c
or or [M0L0T] = [M L T ]
l
Comparing the dimensions of M, L and T, we get
where k is constant
a = 0
Writing the dimensions on both the sides,
b + c = 0
[M0L3 T−1] = [ML−1T−1]a [Lb] [ML−2T−2]c
−2c = 1
or [M0L3 T−1] = [Ma+c L−a+b−2c T−a− 2c]
or a = 0, b = 1 and c = − 1
Comparing the values of M, L and T, we have 2 2
a + c = 0 ...(i)
Substituting the values of a, b, c, the required expression
−a + b − 2c = 3 ...(ii) of the time period of the pendulum is
−a − 2c = – 1 ...(iii) T = kM0L1/2g−1/2
Solving these equations, we get l
or T = k

a = −1, b = 4 and c = 1 g
Putting these values in V = kηarb (P/l)c, we have 22. Discuss the limitations of the methods of dimensions.
P Ans. Following are the limitations of the method of dimensions.
V = kη−1r4 c m
l (a) It does not give any information about a dimensionless
Thus, the volume of the liquid flowing out per second constant included in the expression.
kP r 4 (b) If a physical quantity depends upon more than
=
ηl three physical quantities, this method cases to act
21. The factors affecting the time period of a simple effectively.
pendulum are mass, length and the acceleration due (c) If an expression involves sum of two or more
to gravity. Deduce a relation for the time period of a physical quantities, the method fails.
simple pendulum. (d) For trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic
Ans. In order to find the correct relationship, suppose the time functions involved in a relation, this method does
period T varies as ma, lb and gc, where a, b and c are not help.
the powers of m, l and g respectively, i.e., T ∝ malbgc (e) It does not always convey the factors on which a
= kmalbgc, where k is constant. physical quantity depends, specially in cases where
dimensional constants are taken into account.

Practice questions
1. Which of the following quantities can be written in SI
units in kg m2 A–2 s–3?
(a) Resistance (b) Inductance
(c) Capacitance (d) Magnetic flux
2. The velocity of water waves ‘n’depends on the wavelength
‘l’, density of water ‘P’ and acceleration due to gravity
‘g’. Find a relation between these quantities by the
method of dimensions.
3. The time period of an oscillating drop of radius r, density
ρr 3
r and surface tension S is given by t = k  . Check
S
its dimensional consistency.
4. A large fluid star oscillates in shape under the influence
of its own gravitational field. Using the dimensional
analysis, find an expression for period of oscillation (T)
in terms of radius (R) mean density of fluid (r) and
universal gravitational constant ‘G’.

Topic covered
Significant Figures
Multiple Choice
Questions 1 Mark
1. The number of significant figures in 3400 is
(a) 3 (b) 4
(c) 2 (d) 1
2. The length and breadth of a metal sheet are 3.124 m
and 3.002 m respectively. The area of this sheet up
to four correct significant figures is:
(a) 9.37 m2 (b) 9.378 m2
(c) 9.3782 m2 (d) 9.378248 m2
Answers
1. (c) In x = 3400, zero are not significant. Therefore,
number of significant figure = 2.
2. (b) As area = length × breadth, therefore, as per rules
numerical value of area has four significant digits.
A Short Answer Type [I]
S Questions 2 Marks
3.
What do you mean by significant figures in a measure?
Explain with examples.
Ans. The digits of a measured quantity which are reliable,
plus an additional uncertain digit, constitute significant
figures in a measure. For example, if length is 1.75 m,
then digits 1 and 7 are reliable and digit 5 is uncertain.
Thus it has three significant figures.
4.
The radius of a solid sphere is 5.74 cm. Find its surface
area to appropriate number of significant figures.
Ans. Given r = 5.74 cm.
22
Area = 4pr2 = 4 × × 5.74 = 72.16 cm2
7
Expressing to three significant figures,
Area = 72.2 cm2
5. The length, breadth and thickness of a rectangular
sheet of metal are 4.234 m, 1.005 m and 2.01 cm
respectively. Find the area and volume of the sheet
to correct significant figures. [NCT 2019]
Ans. L = 4.234 m, B = 1.005 m, d = 2.01 cm = 2.01 × 10–2 m
Area of metal sheet = L × B
= 4.234 × 1.005 = 4.25517 m2.
Units and Measurements 25
Since both length and breadth have four significant figure
area of metal sheet is given by 4.255 m2.
Volume = area × thickness = 0.0855 m3.
6. Each side of a cube is 7.203 m. Calculate the surface
area and volume of the cube upto correct number of
significant figure. [NCT 2017]
Ans. Significant figure in length = 4
\ Significant figure in surface area and volume = 4
Surface area of cube = 6(7.203)2 m2
= 311.299254 = 311.3 m2
Volume of cube = (7.203)3 m3
= 373.714754 m3 = 373.7 m3
A Short Answer Type [II]
S Question 3 Marks
7.
State the rules for determining the number of
significant figures in a measurement.
Ans. Rules for determining the number of significant figures
in a measurement are:
(a) All non-zero digits are significant, including zeros
lying between non zero digits.
(b) All zeros to the right of a non zero digit are significant
only if they come from a measurement.
(c) Zero lying on the right of non zero digit and left of
decimal point are significant.
(d) Zero lying to the right of decimal point are significant.
(e) Zeros lying to the right of decimal point, but
succeeded by a non zero digit, are no length
significant.
(f) The number of significant figures in a measure is
independent of the system of units.
A Long Answer
L Type Question 5 Marks
8.
The length, breadth and thickness of a rectangular sheet
of metal are 4.234 m, 1.005 m and 2.01 cm respectively.
Calculate the surface area and volume of the sheet
to correct significant figures.
Ans. Length (l) = 4.234 m
Breadth (b) = 1.005 m
26 Together with®  Physics—11
Thickness (h) = 2.01 cm = 0.0201 m As the lowest significant figure in the given measurement
Surface area of the sheet is 3 (that of thickness) the volume and area should be
expressed in 3 significant figures only.
= 2(lb + bh + lh)
∴ Surface area = 8.72 m2

= 2 (4.234 × 1.005 + 1.005 × 0.0201 + 4.234 × 0.0201)
Volume of the sheet = l × b × h
= 8.7209478.
= 4.234 × 1.005 × 0.0201
= 0.0855289 m3 = 0.086 m3

Practice questions
1. The number of significant figures in numbers 36.42, 2008, 9.172 and 1.678 × 10–19 is
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4
2. The mass and volume of a body are 2.118 g and 1.25 cm3 respectively. The density of the material to correct significant
figures is:
(a) 1.6944 g/cm3 (b) 1.694 g/cm3 (c) 1.69 g/cm3 (d) 1.695 g/cm3
3. A sustance weighing 9.74 g occupies 1.2 cm3 space. Find its density upto correct number of significant figures.
4. Write the number of significant figures in each of the following measurements:
(a) 1.67 × 10–27 kg ; (b) 0.270 cm.

Integrated (MIXED) Questions

(a) Determine π2 with due regard to significant figures.
1. 5.
Fill in the blanks: (3 Marks)
[Given π = 3.14] (2 Marks) (i) The volume of a cube of side 1 cm is equal to .....m3.

(b) In CGS system, the value of Stefan’s constant (σ) is (ii) The surface area of a solid cylinder of radius 2 cm
5.67 × 10–5 erg s–1 cm–2 K–4. Write down its value and height 10 cm is equal to......(mm)2.
in SI units. (iii) A vehicle moving with a speed of 18 km/h covers....m
2.
Write the order of following intervals in seconds: in 1 sec.
 (2 Marks) 6.
Rule out or accept the following formulae for kinetic energy
(i) Time between two heart beats. on the basis of dimensional arguments. (3 Marks)
(i) K = 3/16 mv2  (ii) K = 1/2 mv2 + ma 
(ii) Time of earth’s revolution.
(iii) K = 1/2 mv2
(iii) Time of earth’s rotation.
7.
Write the dimensions of (3 Marks)
(iv) Human life. (i) Linear density (ii) Power
3.
The wavelength l associated with a moving particle (iii) Impulse (iv) Velocity gradient
depends upon its mass m, its velocity v and Planck’s (v) Mass per unit area (vi) Kinetic energy
constant h. Show dimensionally the relationship between (vii) Angular acceleration
them. (2 Marks)
(viii) Couple (ix) Moment of force
4. Using the principle of homogeneity of dimensions find (x) Work done
which of the following is correct. (2 Marks)
8. The frequency ‘f ’ of vibration of a stretched string
(i) T 2 = 4π2 r2 depends upon: (3 Marks)
4π 2 r 3 (i) its length ‘l’
(ii) T2 =
G (ii) the mass per unit length ‘m’
4π 2 r 3 (iii) the Tension ‘T’ in the string.
(iii) T2 =
GM Obtain dimensionally an expression for frequency ‘f ’.

where T is the time period, G is gravitational constant,  [NCT 2018]
M is mass and r is radius of orbit.

9. If ` P + a2 j (V – b) = RT, where the symbols have their
V of its own gravitational field. Using dimensional analysis
usual meanings, then ` a j has a dimension of.... .
b
 (2 Marks)
10. By using the method of dimension, check the accuracy
of the following formula:
rhρg
T= , where T is the surface tension, h is the
2 cos θ
height of the liquid in a capillary tube, ρ is the density
of the liquid, g is the acceleration due to gravity, θ is
the angle of contact, and r is the radius of the capillary
tube. (3 Marks)
11. A planet moves around the sun in a circular orbit. The
time period of revolution T of the planet depends on
 (3 Marks)
(i) Radius of the orbit (R)
(ii) Mass of the sun M
(iii) gravitational constant G
Show dimensionally that T2 ∝ R3
12. It is known that the period T of a magnet of magnetic
moment M vibrating in a uniform magnetic field of
intensity H depends upon M, H and I where I is the
moment of inertia of the magnet about its axis of
oscillations.
I 19. Experiments show that the frequency (n) of a tuning fork
Show that T = 2π . (3 Marks)
MH
13. Given that the amplitude of the scattered light is
(i) directly proportional to that of incident light,
(ii) directly proportional to the volume of the scattering
dust particle (iii) inversely proportional to its distance
from the scattering particle, and (iv) dependent upon the
wavelength (λ) of the light. Show that the intensity of
scattered light varies as 14 . (3 Marks)
λ l
14. The force experienced by a mass moving with a uniform
speed v in a circular path of radius r experiences a force
which depends on its mass, speed and radius. Prove that
2 T is proportional to the cube of radius of orbit r. Show
the relation is f = mv . (3 Marks)
r k r3
Assertion and reason Questions
For the following questions, two statements are given-one
labelled Assertion (A) and the other labelled Reason (R).
Select the correct answer to these questions from the codes
(a), (b), (c) and (d) as given below.
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explana-
tion of A.
Units and Measurements 27
15. A large fluid star oscillates in space under the influence
find the expression for its period (T) of oscillation in
terms of radius of star (R) mean density of fluid (ρ) and
universal gravitational constant (G). (3 Marks)
16. The viscous force ‘F’ acting on a body of radius ‘r’
moving with a velocity ‘v’ in a medium of coefficient
of viscosity ‘η’ is given by F = 6 πηrv. Check the
correctness of the formula. (3 Marks)
17. The number of particles crossing per unit area
perpendicular to x-axis in unit time N is given by
n −n
N = – D c 2 1 m , where n1 and n2 are the number
x2 − x1
of particles per unit volume at x1 and x2 respectively.
Deduce the dimensional formula for D. (3 Marks)
18. Reynold’s number N R (a dimensionless quantity)
determines the condition of laminar flow of a viscous
liquid through a pipe. NR is a function of the density
of the liquid ‘r’, its average speed is ‘v’ and the
coefficient of viscosity of the liquid is ‘h’. If NR is
given directly proportional to ‘d’ (the diameter of
the pipe), show from dimensional consideration that
dρv
NR ∝ the unit of ‘η’ in SI system is kg m–1 s–1.
η
 (3 Marks)
depends upon the length (l) of the prong, the density
(d) and the Young’s modulus (Y) of its material. From
dimensional considerations, find a possible relation for
the frequency of the tuning fork. (3 Marks)
20. Show dimensionally that the frequency n of transverse
waves in a string of length l and mass per unit length m
K T
under a tension T is given by n = . (3 Marks)
m
21. An artificial satellite is revolving around a planet of
mass M and radius R in a circular orbit of radius r.
From Kepler’s third law, square of period of revolution
using dimensional analysis, T = . (3 Marks)
R g
(b) Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct ex-
planation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false and R is also false.
28 Together with®  Physics—11
1. Assertion: Dimension of force is MLT–2.
Reason: Force is the product of mass and acceleration.
2. Assertion: The SI unit of time is second.
Reason: It is the duration of 9,192,631,770 periods of the
radiation corresponding to the transition between the two
hyperfine levels of the ground state of the cesium-133
atom.
3. Assertion: The SI is a coherent system of units.
Reason: All derived units can be obtained from
fundamental units using multiplication or division,
without using any numerical factor.
4. Assertion: The numerical value of a quantity measured
in pounds, is more than that measured in kilogram.
Reason: 1 kg = 0.4536 pound.
5. Assertion: The number of significant figures in 86400
is 3 and is 86400 second is 5.
Case-Based QuestionS
1. The dimensional method is a very convenient way of
finding the dependence of physical quantity on other
physical quantities of a given system. This method has
its own limitations. In a complicated situation, it is often
not easy to guess the factors on which a Physical quantity
will depend. Secondly, this method gives no information
about the dimensionless proportionality constant. Thirdly
this method is used only if a Physical quantity depends
on the product of other physical quantities. Fourthly this
method will not work if a physical quantity depends on
another quantity being a trignometric or exponential
function. Finally this method does not give complete
information in cases where a Physical quantity depends
on more than three quantities in problems in mechanics.
(i) Expression of a physical quantity in terms of powers
of fundamental physical quantity is known as
(a)  Dimensional formula
(b)  Basic physical quantity
(c)  Derived physical quantity
(d)  Dimensional analysis
(ii) Smallest value that can be measured by a measuring
instrument is called
(a)  Minor length
(b)  Small measuring value
(c)  Least count
(d) Relative length
Reason: All zeroes to the right of any number are
significant.
6. Assertion: Dimensional analysis can be used to derive
a relationship between different quantities.
Reason: Dimensional analysis can be used if a quantity
depends upto three factors.
7. Assertion: The magnitude of a physical quantity changes
if expressed in a different system of units.
Reason: The numerical value of a quantity is directly
proportional to the size of its unit.
8. Assertion: Specific gravity and strain are examples of
dimensionless variables.
Reason: Dimensionless variables have no dimensions
and can take variable values.
(iii) Method of dimensional analysis used the principle
of
(a) Heterogeneity
(b) Homogeneity
(c) Power’s law
(d) Associativity
(iv) Dimensional analysis will not work if a physical
quantity depends on another quantity like
(a)  fraction value
(b)  trigonometric function
(c)  parabolic function
(d)  square root of a quantity
Or
(iv) The dimensions of volumetric strain are the same
as that of
(a) frequency
(b)  gravitational potential
(c) Planck’s constant
(d)  coefficient of friction.
2. In the study of Physics, we often have to measure the
physical quantities. The numerical value of a measured
quantity can only be approximate as it depends upon
the least count of the measuring instrument used. The
number of significant figures in any measurement
indicates the degree of precision of that measurement.

The importance of significant figures lies in calculation.
A mathematical calculation cannot increase the precision
of a physical measurement. Therefore, the number of
significant figures in the sum or product of a group of
numbers cannot be greater than the number that has
the least number of significant figures because a chain
cannot be stronger than its weakest link. The difference
in the true value and the measured value of a quantity
is the measure of error in measurement.
(i) The device preferred for taking a small measure,
say diameter of a wire is
(a) metre scale (b) screw gauge
(c) parallax method (d) sextant device
(ii) Which of the following set have different
4. In an experiment to estimate the size of oleic acid
dimensions?
(a) Pressure, Young’s modulus, Stress
(b) Emf, potential difference, Electric potential
(c) Heat, Work done, Energy
(d) Dipole moment, Electric flux, Electric field
(iii) When the measured values are close to each other,
but not close to the true value, then
(a) precision is high, accuracy is less
(b) accuracy is high, precision is less
(c) accuracy is high, precision is also high
(d) accuracy is low, precision is also low
(iv) For dimensional analysis the given quantity should
depend on
(a) atleast four factors
(b) atleast five factors
(c) maximum two factors
(d) maximum three factors
Or
(iv) For a measurement, we prefer to select a device
which has
(a) high least count
(b) small least count
(c) high accuracy
(d) high precision
3. The velocity of light ‘c’, the constant of gravitation ‘G’
and Planck’s constant ‘h’ be chosen as fundamental units.
(i) The dimensions of mass are
(a) [h c G] (b) [h1/2 c1/2 G–1/2]
(c) [h2 c2 G–2] (d) [h c G–1]
(ii) The dimensions of length are
(a) [h1/2 c1/2 G1/2] (b) [h1/2 c–3/2 G–1/2]
(c) [h1/2 c–3/2 G1/2] (d) [h c G]
Units and Measurements 29
(iii) The dimensions of time are
(a) [h1/2 c1/2 G1/2] (b) [h1/2 c–5/2 G–1/2]
(c) [h–1/2 c–5/2 G1/2] (d) [h1/2 c–5/2 G1/2]
(iv) The number of significant figures in 0.06900 is
(a) 5 (b) 4
(c) 2 (d) 3
Or
(iv) Prof. Albert Einstein got noble prize in Physics
for his work on
(a) Special theory of relativity.
(b) Equivalence of mass-energy.
(c) Photoelectric effect.
(d) Fifth state of matter BEC.
molecule, 1 mL of oleic acid is dissolved in 19 mL of
alcohol. Then 1 mL of this solution is diluted to 20 mL
by adding alcohol. Now, 1 drop of this diluted solution
is placed on water in a shallow trough. The solution
spreads over the surface of water forming one molecule
thick layer. Now lycopodium powder is sprinkled over
the film evenly and its diameter is measured. Knowing
the volume of the drop and area of the film, we can
calculate the thickness of the film which will give us
the size of oleic acid molecule.
(i) We dissolve oleic acid in alcohol because
(a) it does not react with alcohol
(b) it reacts vigorously with water
(c) it does not dissolve in water
(d) both (a) and (b) are true
(ii) We sprinkle lycopodium powder evenly on water
surface so that
(a) oleic acid forms a layer over it
(b) oleic acid forms a circular area on surface
by pushing the powder away
(c) oleic acid layer becomes thicker
(d) oleic acid layer becomes thinner
(iii) What would be the volume of oleic acid in each
mL of solution prepared?
1 1
(a) mL (b) mL
20 40
1 1
(c) mL (d) mL
200 400
(iv) How will you calculate the volume of n drops of
this solution of oleic acid?
(a) Using burette and measuring cylinder
(b) Using dropper and measuring cylinder
(c) Using weighing machine and measuring
cylinder
(d) Any of the above.
30 Together with®  Physics—11
Or (a) 1 u × c2 = 931.5 MeV
(iv) What will be the volume of oleic acid in one drop (b) 1 u = 931.5 × c2 MeV
of this solution? (c) 1 u × c = 931.5 MeV
400 400 (d) 1 u = 931.5 × c MeV
(a) mL (b) mL
n n2 (iii) Which of the following relations is correct?
n n2 (a) 1 J = 1.6 × 10–19 eV
(c) mL (d) mL
400 400 (b) 1 eV = 1.6 × 10–19 J
5. Einstein’s mass-energy relation emerging out of his (c) 1 eV = 9.27 × 10–27 eV
famous theory of relativity relates mass(m) and energy (d) 1 J = 6.25 × 1018 eV
as E = mc2. At nuclear level, magnitudes of energy are (iv) The dimensions of E in E = mc2 are
very small. This energy is measured in MeV where
(a) [M2L2T–2] (b) [MLT–1]
1 MeV = 1.6 × 10–13 J. Masses are measured in unified
atomic mass unit, where 1 u = 1.67 × 10–27 kg. (c) [MLT–2] (d) [ML2T2]
(i) What is the energy equivalent of 1 u? Or
(a) 931.5 eV (b) 931.5 keV (iv) The unit ‘joule’ is the SI unit of
(c) 931.5 meV (d) 931.5 MeV (a) work
(ii) A student writes the relation as 1 u = 931.5 MeV. (b) energy
The teacher points out that the relation (c) heat absorbed/released
dimensionally incorrect is (d) all of these

NCERT ZONE

NCERT Exercises

1.1. Fill in the blanks:
(a) The volume of a cube of side 1 cm is equal to
_________ m3.
(b) The surface area of a solid cylinder of radius
2.0 cm and height 10.0 cm is equal to _________
(mm)2.
(c) A vehicle moving with a speed of 18 kmh–1
cover _________ m in 1s.
(d) The relative density of lead is 11.3. Its density
is _________ g cm–3 or _________ kg m–3.
Ans. (a) 10–6 (b) 15072
(c) 5 (d) 11.3 × 103 kgm–3
1.2. Fill in the blanks by suitable conversion of units:
(a) 1 kg m2 s–2 = ______ g cm2 s–2
(b) 1 m = _______ ly
(c) 3.0 ms–2 = ________ kmh–2
(d) G = 6.67 × 10–11 Nm2 (kg)–2 = _______ (cm)3 s–2 g–1
Ans. (a) 107 (b) 1.057 × 10–16
(c) 3.888 × 104 (d) 6.67 × 10–8
1.3. A calorie is a unit of heat or energy and it equals
about 4.2 J, where 1 J = 1 kg m2s–2. Suppose we
employ a system of units in which the unit of
mass equals a kg, the unit of length equals b m
and the unit of time is g s. Show that a calorie has
a magnitude of 4.2 a–1 b–2 g2 in terms of the new
units.
Ans. Here, 1 calorie = 4.2 J = 4.2 kgm2s–2...(i)
As new unit of mass = a kg
1
\ 1 kg = new unit of mass = a–1 new unit of mass
α
Similarly, 1m = b–1 new unit of length
1s = g–1 new unit of time
Putting these values in (i), we obtain
1 calorie = 4.2 (a–1 new unit of mass)
(b–1 new unit of length)2 (g–1 new unit of time)–2
1 calorie = 4.2 a–1 b–2 g2 new unit of energy which
was to be proved.
1.4. Explain this statement clearly: “To call a
dimensionless quantity ‘large’ or ‘small’ is
meaningless without specifying a standard for
 Units and Measurements 31
comparison.” In view of this, reframe the following Now (a) least count of this vernier callipers
statements wherever necessary: 19
= 1SD – 1VD = 1SD − SD
(a) atoms are very small objects. 20
(b) a jet plane moves with great speed. 1 1 1
= SD = mm = cm = 0.005 cm
(c) the mass of Jupiter is very large. 20 20 200
(d) the air inside this room contains a large number (b) Least count of screw gauge
of molecules. = Pitch
Number of divisions on circular scale
(e) a proton is much more massive than an
1
electron. Least count of screw gauge = mm
100
(f) the speed of sound is much smaller than the 1
speed of light. = cm = 0.001 cm
1000
Ans. The statement is true. This is because a dimensionless
(c) Wavelength of light, l ≈ 10–5 cm = 0.00001 cm
quantity can be large or small only in comparison to
Obviously, the most precise measure is with
some standard. For example, the angle is dimensionless.
optical instrument.
∠q = 60° is larger than ∠q = 30°, but smaller than
∠q = 90°. 1.7. A student measures the thickness of a human hair by
(a) The size of an atom is smaller than the sharp tip looking at it through a microscope of magnification
of a pin. 100. He makes 20 observations and finds that the
(b) A jet plane moves faster than a superfast train. average width of the hair in the field of view of the
microscope is 3.5 mm. What is the estimate on the
(c) The mass of jupiter is very large compared to
thickness of hair?
the mass of the earth.
Observed width (y)
(d) The air inside this room contains more number Ans. Magnification, m =  
Real width (x)
of molecules than in one mole of air.
(e) The statement is already correct. y 3.5 mm
(f) The statement is already correct. ⇒  x= =
m 100
1.5. A new unit of length is chosen such that the speed x = 0.035 mm
of light in vacuum is unity. What is the distance 1.8. Answer the following:
between the Sun and the Earth in terms of the
(a) You are given a thread and a metre scale. How
new unit, if light takes 8 min and 20 s to cover this
will you estimate the diameter of the thread?
distance?
(b) A screw gauge has a pitch of 1.0 mm and 200
Ans. We are given that the velocity of light in vacuum, c = 1
divisions on the circular scale. Do you think it
new unit of length per second.
is possible to increase the accuracy of the screw
Time taken by light of the Sun to reach the Earth,
gauge arbitrarily by increasing the number of
t = 8 min 20s
divisions on the circular scale?
k = 8 × 60 + 20 = 500s
(c) The mean diameter of a thin brass rod is to
\ Distance between the Sun and the Earth x = c × t
be measured by vernier callipers. Why is a set
⇒  x = 1 new unit of length per second × 500 s of 100 measurements of the diameter expected
 = 500 new units of length to yield a more reliable estimate than a set of
1.6. Which of the following is the most precise device 5 measurements only?
for measuring length: Ans. (a) The diameter of a thread is so small that it cannot
(a) a vernier callipers with 20 divisions on the be measured using a metre scale. We find a
sliding scale, number of turns of the thread on the metre scale
(b) a screw gauge of pitch 1 mm and 100 divisions so that the turns are closely touching one another.
on the circular scale, Measure the lengths (l) of the winding on the
(c) an optical instrument that can measure length scale which contains n number of turns.
to within a wavelength of light? l
\  Diameter of thread =
Ans. The most precise device is that whose least count is n
minimum.
32 Together with®  Physics—11
(b) As least count As area can contain a maximum of three significant
Pitch
=
Number of divisions on circular scale
\ Theoretically speaking, least count decreases on
increasing the number of divisions on the circular
scale. Hence, accuracy would increase. Practically,
it may not be possible to take the reading
precisely due to low resolution of human eye.
(c) A large number of observations (say, 100) will
give more reliable result than smaller number
of observations (say, 5). This is because of the
probability of making a positive random error
of certain magnitude is equal to that of making
a negative random error of the same magnitude.
Therefore, when number of observations is large,
random errors are likely to cancel and the result
may be more reliable.
1.9. The photograph of a house occupies an area of
1.75 cm2 on a 35 mm slide. The slide is projected
on to a screen, and the area of the house on the
screen is 1.55 m2. What is the linear magnification
of the projector-screen arrangement?
Ans. Here, area of object = 1.75 cm2 = 1.75 × 10–4 m2 and
area of image = 1.55 m2
Area of image
\ Area magnification =
Area of object
1.55 × 10 4
= = 8857
1.75
Linear magnification = 8857 = 94.1
1.10. State the number of significant figures in the
following:
(a) 0.007 m2 (b) 2.64 × 1024 kg
(c) 0.2370 g cm–3 (d) 6.320 J
(e) 6.032 Nm–2 (f) 0.0006032 m2
Ans. The number of significant figures is as given below:
(a) One (b) Three (c) Four
(d) Four (e) Four (f) Four
1.11. The length, breadth and thickness of a rectangular
sheet of metal are 4.234 m, 1.005 m and 2.01 cm
respectively. Give the area and volume of the sheet
to correct significant figures.
Ans. Here, length, l = 4.234 m
breadth, b = 1.005 m
thickness, t = 2.01 cm = 2.01 × 10–2 m
Area of the sheet = 2 (l × b + b × t + t × l)
= 2(4.234 × 1.005 + 1.005
 × 0.0201 + 0.0201 × 4.234)
= 2(4.3604739) = 8.7209478 m2
digits, therefore, rounding off, we get
Area = 8.72 m2
Also, Volume = l × b × t
⇒ V = 4.234 × 1.005 × 0.0201
= 0.0855 m3
 (Containing three significant figures)
1.12. The mass of a box measured by a grocer’s balance
is 2.30 kg. Two gold pieces of masses 20.15 g and
20.17 g are added to the box. What is (a) the total
mass of the box, (b) the difference in the masses of
the pieces to correct significant figures?
Ans. Here, mass of the box m = 2.3 kg
Mass of one gold piece, m1 = 20.15g = 0.02015 kg
Mass of other gold piece, m2 = 20.17 g = 0.02017 kg
(a) Total mass = m + m1 + m2 = 2.3 + 0.02015 +
0.02017 = 2.34032 kg
As the results is correct only upto one place of
decimal, therefore on rounding off
total mass = 2.3 kg
(b) Difference in masses = m2 – m1 = 20.17 – 20.15
= 0.02 g (correct upto two places of decimals)
1.13. A famous relation in physics relates ‘moving mass’
m to the ‘rest mass’ m0 of a particle in terms of its
speed v and the speed of light, c. (This relation first
arose as a consequence of special relativity due to
Albert Einstein). A boy recalls the relation almost
correctly but forgets where to put the constant c.
m0
He writes: m =
(1 − v 2) 1/2
Guess where to put the missing c.
Ans. According to the principle of homogeneity of
dimensions, the powers of M, L, T on either side of
the formula must be equal.
For this, on RHS, the denominator (1 – v2)1/2 should
be dimensionless. Therefore, instead of (1 – v2)1/2, we
should write (1 – v2/c2)1/2 to make the denominator
dimensionless.
m0
Hence, the correct formula would be m = .
(1 − v 2/c 2)1/2
1.14. The unit of length convenient on the atomic scale
is known as an angstrom and is denoted by Å : 1Å
= 10–10 m. The size of a hydrogen atom is about
0.5 Å. What is the total atomic volume in m3 of a
mole of hydrogen atoms?
Ans. Here, r = 0.5 Å = 0.5 × 10–10 m
Volume of each atom of hydrogen
4 4
= πr 3 = × 3.14 (0.5 × 10 –10) 3
3 3
= 5.236 × 10–31 m3

Number of hydrogen atoms in 1 g mole of hydrogen
= Avogadro’s number
= 6.023 × 1023
\ Atomic volume of one gram mole of hydrogen atom
= 5.236 × 10–31 × 6.023 × 1023
= 3.154 × 10–7 m3
1.15. One mole of an ideal gas at standard temperature
and pressure occupies 22.4 L (molar volume). What
is the ratio of molar volume to the atomic volume
of a mole of hydrogen? (Take the size of hydrogen
molecule to be about 1Å). Why is this ratio so large?
4 these high temperatures, no substance remains in a
Ans. Atomic volume = πR 3 × N
3
4 the mass density of the Sun to be, in the range of
= π (0.5 × 10 –10) 3 × 6.023 × 10 23
3
= 3.154 × 10–7 m3
Molar volume = 22.4 litre = 22.4 × 10–3 m3
Molar volume 22.4 × 10 –3
= = 7.1 × 104
Atomic volume 3.154 × 10 –7
This ratio is large due to the large intermolecular
separations.
1.16. Explain this common observation clearly: If you
look out of the window of a fast moving train, the
nearby trees, houses etc. seem to move rapidly in
a direction opposite to the train’s motion, but the
distant objects (hill tops, the moon, the stars etc.)
seem to be stationary. (In fact, since you are aware
that you are moving, these distant objects seem to
move with you).
select NCERT exemplar problems
1. The number of significant figures in 0.06900 is
(a) 5 (b) 4
(c) 2 (d) 3
Ans. (b) Initial zero after the decimal point is not significant.
2. The sum of the numbers 436.32, 227.2 and 0.301 in
appropriate significant figures is
(a) 663.821 (b) 664
(c) 663.8 (d) 663.82
Ans. (b) 436.32 + 227.2 + 0.301 = 663.821 = 664 (rounding
off to three significant figures)
3. The mass and volume of a body are 4.237 g and
2.5 cm3, respectively. The density of the material of
the body in correct significant figures is
(a) 1.6048 g/cm3 (b) 1.69 g/cm3
(c) 1.7 g/cm3 (d) 1.695 g/cm3
Units and Measurements 33
Ans. The line joining to the object is called the line of sight.
When a train moves rapidly, the line of sight of nearby
trees changes its direction of motion rapidly. Therefore,
the trees appear to run in opposite direction.
On the contrary, the line of sight of far off objects
(hill tops, the moon, the star etc.) does not change its
direction so much, due to extremely large distance
from the eye. Hence distant hill tops, moon, the stars
etc. appear stationary.
1.17. The Sun is a hot plasma (ionised matter) with its
inner core at a temperature exceeding 107 K, and its
outer surface at a temperature of about 6000 K. At
solid or liquid phase. In what range do you expect
densities of solids, liquids or gases? Check if your
guess is correct from the following data: mass of the
sun = 2.0 × 1030 kg; radius of the Sun = 7.0 × 108 m.
Ans. Here, Mass of the Sun, M = 2.0 × 1030 kg; Radius of
the Sun, R = 7.0 × 108 m
Density, r = ?
Mass M 3M
\ Density = = =
Volume 4 3 4πR 3
πR
3
3 × 2.0 × 10 30
Density (r) =
4 × 3.14 × (7 × 10 8) 3
= 1.392 × 103 kg/m­3
This is the order of density of solids and liquids; and
not gases. This high density of the sun is due to the
inward gravitational attraction on outer layers, due to
the inner layers of the sun.
Mass 4.237 g
Ans. (c) Density = =
Volume 2.5 cm 3
= 1.6948 g/cm = 1.7 g/cm3
3
(rounding off to two significant figures)
4. The numbers 2.745 and 2.735 on rounding off to
3 significant figures will give
(a) 2.75 and 2.74 (b) 2.74 and 2.73
(c) 2.75 and 2.73 (d) 2.74 and 2.74
Ans. (d) In 2.745, the digit to be rounded off (i.e., 4) is even,
hence it should be left unchanged and in 2.735,
the digit to be rounded off (i.e., 3) is odd, hence it
should increased by 1, i.e., changed to 4.
34 Together with®  Physics—11
5. Young’s modulus of steel is 1.9 × 1011 N/m2. When 9. Photon is quantum of radiation with energy E = hν
expressed in CGS units of dynes/cm2, it will be equal where ν is frequency and h is Planck’s constant. The
to (1N = 105 dyne, 1 m2 = 104 cm2) dimensions of h are the same as that of
(a) 1.9 × 1010 (b) 1.9 × 1011 (a) Linear impulse (b) Angular impulse
(c) 1.9 × 1012 (d) 1.9 × 1013 (c) Linear momentum (d) Angular momentum
Ans. (b, d)
f p
10 5 dyne
Ans. (c) Y = 1.9 × 1011 N/m2 = 1.9 × 1011 Planck’s constant = [ML2T –1]
10 4 cm 2
(a) Linear impulse = Ft = [MLT –2][T] = [MLT –1]
6. If momentum (P), area (A) and time (T) are taken
(b) Angular impulse = Iw = [ML2][T –1] = [ML2T –1]
to be fundamental quantities, then energy has the
(c) Linear momentum = mv = [M] [LT –1] = [MLT –1]
dimensional formula
(d) Angular momentum = mve = [M] [LT –1 ][L]
(a) (P1A–1T1) (b) (P2A1T1)
= [ML2T –1]
(c) (P1A–1/2T1) (d) (P1A1/2T –1) 10. Which of the following ratios expresses pressure?
Ans. (d) Let energy, E ∝ P aAbT c
(a) Force/Area (b) Energy/Density
or E = kPaAbT c (c) Energy/Area (d) Force/Volume
or [ML2T –2] = [MLT –1]a [L2]b [T]c = [MaLa+2bT –a+c] Ans. (a)
1 11. Which of the following are not a unit of time?
Whence, a = 1, b = , c = –1
2 (a) Second (b) Parsec
Dimensional formula for E is [P1A1/2T –1]
(c) Year (d) Light year
7. On the basis of dimensions, decide which of the
Ans. (b, d)
following relation(s) for the displacement of a particle
Parsec and light year are the units of length.
undergoing simple harmonic motion is (are) not
correct: 12. Which of the following pairs of physical quantities
does not have same dimensional formula?
(a) y = a sin 2pt/T
(a) Work and torque.
(b) y = a sin vt
(b) Angular momentum and Planck’s constant.
sin f p
a t
(c) y = (c) Tension and surface tension.
T a
(d) Impulse and linear momentum.
2π t 2πt
(d) y = a 2 f sin – cos p Ans. (c)
T T (a) Work = Force × Distance
Ans. (b, c) = [MLT –2][L] = [ML2 T –2]
The argument of sin and cos should be dimensionless, Torque = Force × Distance = [ML2T –2]
which is not so in case of (vt) and (t/a). More so, in (c), (b) Angular momentum = mvr
(a/T) is not displacement as it is equal to amplitude/ = [M][ML–1][L] = [ML2 T –1]
time period. E [ML2 T –2]
8. If P, Q, R are physical quantities, having different Plank’s constant, h = = = [ML2 T –2]
v –1
[T ]
dimensions, which of the following combinations (s) –2
(c) Tension = force = [MLT  ]
can never be a meaningful quantity?
Force [MLT –2]
(a) (P – Q)/R (b) PQ – R Surface tension = = = [ML0T –2]
Length [L]
(c) PQ/R (d) (PR – Q2)/R
(d) Impulse = Force × Time = [MLT –2] = [T] = [MLT –1]
(e) (R + Q)/P
Momentum = Mass × Velocity
Ans. (a, e)
= [M][LT –1] = [MLT –1]
(P – Q) and (R + Q), being the difference and sum of two
13. The radius of atom is of the order of 1Å and of nucleus
quantities with different dimensions, are meaningless.
is of the order of fermi. How many magnitudes higher
(b, c) : PQ may have the same dimensions as those of R.
is the volume of atom as compared to volume of
(d) : PR and Q2 may have same dimensions as those of R. nucleus?
 Units and Measurements 35
Ans. Ratio of volume of atom to volume of nucleus Ans. Distance of galaxy = 1025
4 3
πR Speed of light = 3 × 108 m/s
R3 10 25
= 3 = Time taken =
Distance
= = 3.3 × 1016 s
4 3 r3 Speed 8
πr 3 × 10
3 Order of magnitude = 16
(10 −10) 3 17. A new system of units is proposed in which unit of
= = 10–15
(10 −15) 3 mass is a kg, length b m and of time is g s. How much
14. A function f (q) is defined as will 5 J measure in this new system?
θ2 θ3 θ4 Ans. Let a physical quantity be Q = n1u1 = n2u2.
f (q) = 1 – q + − + …… Let M1, L1, T1 and M2, L2, T2 be the units of length,
2! 3! 4!
Why should f (q) be a dimensionless quantity? mass and time.
arc M1 a L1 b T1 c
== G = G = G
Ans. f (q) expresses angle q which is equal to , n2

radius n1 M2 L2 T2
which is dimensionless. Also, the first term is 1, which Dimensions of energy [U] = [ML2T–2]
is dimensionless. Hence all other terms should be
M1 = 1 kg, L1 = 1 m, T1 = 1 s
dimensionless.
M2 = a, L2 = b, T2 = g
15. (a) The earth-moon distance is about 60 times the
1 1 1 2 1 −2
earth’s radius. What will be the approximate n2 = 5 × d n × e o × e o
diameter of the earth (in degrees) from the moon? α β γ
1 ” 5γ 2
(b) Moon is seen to be d n diameter from earth. n2 = J
2 αβ 2
What must be the relative size of moon as
18. If the velocity of light (c), the constant of gravitation
compared to the earth?
(G) and Planck’s constant (h) be chosen as the
(c) From parallax measurement, the sun is found to fundamental units, find the dimensions of mass,
be at a distance of 400 times earth-moon distance. length and time in the new system.
Estimate the ratio of sun earth diameters.
Re 1 Ans. Let us write the dimensions of c, G and h in terms of
Ans. (a) q = arc/radius = = rad M, L and T.
60Re 60
[c] = [LT−1]
(radius of earth = Re)
[G] = [M−1 L3T−2]
Angle from moon to diameter of earth is
1 180 [ML2 T − 2 ]
2q = 2 × × = 2” [h] = –1
= [ML2 T−1]
60 π [T ]
1
(b) Angle by which moon is seen from earth = ” Let M = KcαGβhγ, where K is constant
2
[M] = [LT−1]α[M−1L3T−2]β[ML2T−1]γ
c m
1" or
Size of moon 1 = [M−β+γ Lα+3β+2γ T−α−2β−γ]
= 2 =
Size of earth 2" 4 Comparing the powers of M, L and T on both the sides,
(c) Let distance between earth and moon = m we have
and distance between earth and sun = s −β + γ = 1 ...(i)
If angle of moon from earth = qm α + 3β + 2γ = 0 ...(ii)
and angle of sun from earth = qs,
−α − 2β − γ = 0 ...(iii)
then qm = qs (consider a solar eclipse)
Solving these equations, we get,
Dm D
= s α = 1 , β = −1 , γ = 1
m s 2 2 2
D D D
(s = 400 m) ⇒ m = r ⇒ s = 400 ∴ M = Kc1/2 G−1/2 h1/2
rm rs Dm
Taking K = 1, we can write
De Ds 400
As = 4,  =   ⇒  Ds = 100 De M = c1/2 G−1/2 h1/2
Dm De 1
Similarly, we can prove that
16. Distance of a galaxy is of the order of 1025. Calculate L = c−3/2 G1/2 h1/2
the order of magnitude of time taken by light to reach
and T = c−5/2 h1/2 G1/2
us from galaxy.

Answers to all unsolved questions are given at the end of all chapters
36 Together with®  Physics—11
Self-Evaluation Test
1. If C represents capacitance and R represents resis-
tance, then the unit of CR2 are:
Volt – Second
(a) Henry (b)
Ampere
(c) Volt/ampere (d) Joule/ampere2
2. The pair(s) of physical quantities that have the same
dimensions is (are):
(a) volumetric strain and coefficient of friction.
(b) disintegration constant of a radioactive substance
and frequency of light wave.
(c) heat capacity and gravitational potential.
(d) Planck’s constant and torque.
For question numbers 3 and 4, two statements are given-
one labelled Assertion (A) and the other labelled Reason
(R). Select the correct answer to these questions from the
codes (a), (b), (c) and (d) as given below.
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation
of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct
explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false and R is also false.
3. Assertion: Pressure has same dimensions as young’s
modulus.
Reason: Pressure is equal to energy per unit volume.
4. Assertion: All dimensionally correct equations are nu-
merically correct.
Reason: A dimensionless quantity always has a unit.
5. Out of formulae (i) y = a sin 2pt/T and (ii) y = a sin vt
for the displacement y of a particle undergoing a
certain periodic motion, rule out the wrong formula on
dimensional grounds.
[where a = maximum displacement of the particle,
v = speed of the particle, T = time period of motion.]
6. Find the area of the circle of radius 3.458 cm upto
correct significant figures.
7. Assuming that the mass (m) of the largest stone that
can be moved by a flowing river depends only upon
the velocity v, the density ρ of water and the accelera-
tion due to gravity g. Show that m varies, with the sixth
power of the velocity of the flow.
Scan
8. (a) How many astronomical units make parsec?
(b) Consider the sun as a star at a distance of 2 parsecs. If
seen through a telescope of 100 magnification, what
would be the angular size of star? Sun appears to be
(½)° from the earth. Due to atmospheric fluctuations,
eye cannot resolve objects smaller than 1 arc minute.
(c) Mass has approximately half of earth’s diameter.
When closest to earth, it is at about ½ AU from the
earth. What size will it appear when seen through
the same telescope?
9. Read the following paragraph and answer the
questions that follow.
To express any measurement made we need the
numerical value (n) and the related unit (u). Therefore,
we write, Physical quantity = nu
The irrespective of the system of units followed, the
product nu has to be a constant.
Units which are defined in an appropriate way and
cannot be expressed by any other means are called fun-
damental units. Kilogram, metre and second for mass,
length and time respectively are known as fundamental
units. Besides these mole, candela, ampere and kelvin
are used as standard units.
Units which are expressed in terms of fundamental units
are called derived units. For example, speed is equal to
distance/time and is therefore expressed in ms−1.
(i) Which of the following systems of units is not
based on units of mass, length and time alone?
(a) SI (b) MKS
(c) FPS (d) CGS
(ii) Which of the following has metre kelvin as the
unit?
(a) Rydberg constant (b) Wein’s constant
(c) Solar constant (d) Gas constant.
(iii) Pressure is defined as:
(a) Momentum per unit area
(b) Momentum per unit area per unit time
(c) Momentum per unit volume
(d) Energy per unit volume
(iv) Which of the following quantities have no units?
(a) Refractive index (b) Stress
(c) Density (d) Sound
to get Answers