dimensional analysis

American

noun

Physics.

a method for comparing the dimensions of the physical quantities occurring in a problem to find relationships between the quantities without having to solve the problem completely.

Etymology

Origin of dimensional analysis

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

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Since this simple arithmetic involves quantities, the premise of dimensional analysis requires that we multiply both numbers and units.

From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019

Any combination of units that yield to the constraints of dimensional analysis are acceptable.

From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019

These conversions are accomplished using unit conversion factors, which are derived by simple applications of a mathematical approach called the factor-label method or dimensional analysis.

From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023