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What is the dimensional formula of solar constant?

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9 Months agoGrade
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ApprovedApproved Tutor Answer9 Months ago

The solar constant is a measure of the amount of solar energy received per unit area at the top of the Earth's atmosphere. It is typically expressed in watts per square meter (W/m²).

Dimensional Formula Breakdown

To derive the dimensional formula of the solar constant, we need to understand its components:

  • Power (Watts): Power is defined as energy per unit time. The dimensional formula for power is:
    • [P] = [M][L²][T⁻³]
  • Area (Square Meters): The area is measured in square meters, which has the dimensional formula:
    • [A] = [L²]

Combining the Dimensions

The solar constant combines these two concepts. Since it is power per unit area, we can express it as:

[Solar Constant] = [Power] / [Area]

Substituting the dimensional formulas gives:

[Solar Constant] = [M][L²][T⁻³] / [L²]

After simplifying, we find:

[Solar Constant] = [M][T⁻³]

Final Dimensional Formula

Thus, the dimensional formula of the solar constant is:

[M][T⁻³]