The Language of Physics Chapter 1 Section 3

Mathematics and Physics The tools of mathematics is used to analyze and summarize observed phenomena. Mathematical relationships among physical quantities can be used to help predict what will happen.

Organizing Data Data can be easily organized using tables, charts, and equations. Data tables are a convenient way to collect data in an organized manner. Graphing data is the best way to show data and patterns that might arise. – Often times an equation can be formed to describe the relationship between variables in an experiment.

Physics and Equations In physics, equations are used to indicate the relationship between two or more variables. Variables in physics are used to described quantities in equations, which often come from the English and Greek alphabet. – Δ – Greek letter “Delta” → Change in – θ – Greek letter “Theta” → Angle – λ – Greek letter “Lamda”→ Wave length – Σ – Greek letter “Sigma” → Sum of

Abbreviations For Variables and Units QuantitySymbolUnitsUnit Abbreviations TimetSecondss MassmKilogramskg PositionΔx or ΔyMetersm

Dimensional Analysis

Order-of-Magnitude Order-of-Magnitude: Estimating large and small numbers to the nearest power of 10. – Only done when precise measurements is not required. Examples: – 798 m → 10 3 m (1000 m) – 10,345 m → 10 4 m (10,000 m) – s → m (0.01 m)

Multiply and Dividing Exponents