The force, F, acting on the wings of an aircraft moving through the air of velocity, v, and density, ρ, is given by the equation F = \(kv^xρ^yA^z\), where k is a dimensionless constant and A is the surface area of the wings of the aircraft. Use dimensional analysis to determine the values of x, y, and z.
Explanation
F = \(kv^xρ^yA^z\)
For the left-hand side:
F = mass × acceleration = \(MLT^{-2}\)
For the right-hand side:
v = \(LT^{-1}\), ρ = \(ML^{-3}\) and A = \(L^2\)
So,
\(MLT^{-2} = k(LT^{-1})^x(ML^{-3})^y(L^2)^z\)
Since k is dimensionless,
\(MLT^{-2} = (LT^{-1})^x(ML^{-3})^y(L^2)^z\)
\(MLT^{-2} = L^x × T^{(-1)x} \times M^y × L^{(-3)y} \times L^{(2)z}\)
\(MLT^{-2} = L^x × T^{-x} \times M^y \times L^{-3y} \times L^{2z}\)
\(MLT^{-2} = L^{(x - 3y + 2z)} \times T^{-x} \times M^y\)
\(M^1L^1T^{-2}= L^{(x - 3y + 2z)} \times T^{-x} \times M^{y}\)
Comparing the powers:
For M,
y = 1
For L,
x - 3y + 2z = 1 ---- (i)
For T,
-x = -2
∴ x = 2
Substitute (2) for x and (1) for y in equation (i)
⇒ 2 - 3(1) + 2z = 1
⇒ 2 - 3 + 2z = 1
⇒ -1 + 2z = 1
⇒ 2z = 1 + 1
⇒ 2z = 2
∴ z = 1
Hence, x = 2, y = 1 and z = 1.