Question 254 of 949
Which of the following is a derived quantity in the International System of Units (SI)?
Correct Answer:
C
Explanation
The correct option is **C. Force**.
### Detailed Explanation
In the International System of Units (SI), quantities are classified into two main categories: base quantities and derived quantities.
1. **Base Quantities**: These are the fundamental physical quantities from which other quantities can be derived. The seven base quantities in the SI system are:
- Length (meter, m)
- Mass (kilogram, kg)
- Time (second, s)
- Electric current (ampere, A)
- Thermodynamic temperature (kelvin, K)
- Amount of substance (mole, mol)
- Luminous intensity (candela, cd)
2. **Derived Quantities**: These are quantities that are derived from the base quantities through mathematical relationships. They are expressed in terms of the base quantities.
**Force** is a classic example of a derived quantity. It is defined by Newton's second law of motion, which states that force is the product of mass and acceleration. The formula for force is given by:
\[
F = m \cdot a
\]
where:
- \( F \) is the force measured in newtons (N),
- \( m \) is the mass measured in kilograms (kg),
- \( a \) is the acceleration measured in meters per second squared (m/sΒ²).
In SI units, the newton (N) can be expressed in terms of base units as:
\[
1 \, \text{N} = 1 \, \text{kg} \cdot \text{m/s}^2
\]
This shows that force is derived from the base quantities of mass and length (and time, through acceleration).
### Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
- **A. Length**: Length is a base quantity in the SI system. It is measured in meters (m) and does not depend on any other quantities for its definition.
- **B. Mass**: Mass is also a base quantity in the SI system. It is measured in kilograms (kg) and is fundamental to the definition of other quantities, such as force.
- **D. Time**: Time is another base quantity in the SI system, measured in seconds (s). Like length and mass, it is fundamental and does not derive from other quantities.
### Common Pitfalls
- Students often confuse derived quantities with base quantities. Remember that derived quantities are formed from combinations of base quantities.
- Itβs important to understand the definitions and relationships between these quantities, especially in the context of physics problems involving force, motion, and other dynamics.
### Revision Summary
- **Base quantities** in SI include length, mass, time, electric current, temperature, amount of substance, and luminous intensity.
- **Derived quantities** are formed from base quantities; force is derived from mass and acceleration.
- The formula for force is \( F = m \cdot a \), and it is measured in newtons (N).
- Remember the distinction between base and derived quantities to avoid confusion in physics problems.