Question 259 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
1. **Understanding Derived and Base Quantities**:
- In the International System of Units (SI), quantities are classified into two categories: base quantities and derived quantities.
- **Base quantities** are the fundamental physical quantities that are defined independently. They include:
- Mass (kilogram, kg)
- Length (meter, m)
- Time (second, s)
- **Derived quantities** are those that are derived from the base quantities through mathematical relationships. They are expressed in terms of the base quantities.
2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **A. Mass**: This is a base quantity. It is one of the fundamental measurements in physics and is measured in kilograms (kg).
- **B. Length**: This is also a base quantity. It is measured in meters (m) and is fundamental to measuring distance.
- **C. Force**: This is a derived quantity. Force is defined by Newton's second law of motion, which states that force equals mass times acceleration (F = ma). In SI units, force is measured in newtons (N), where 1 N = 1 kg·m/s². Thus, force is derived from the base quantities of mass (kg) and acceleration (m/s²).
- **D. Time**: This is another base quantity. It is measured in seconds (s) and is fundamental to measuring duration.
3. **Why Other Options Are Incorrect**:
- **A. Mass**: Incorrect because it is a base quantity, not derived.
- **B. Length**: Incorrect for the same reason; it is a base quantity.
- **D. Time**: Incorrect as it is also a base quantity.
### Formulas and Calculations
- The formula for force is given by:
\[
F = m \cdot a
\]
where:
- \( F \) is the force in newtons (N),
- \( m \) is the mass in kilograms (kg),
- \( a \) is the acceleration in meters per second squared (m/s²).
### Common Pitfalls
- Students often confuse derived quantities with base quantities. Remember that derived quantities are formed from combinations of base quantities.
- It’s important to memorize the base quantities in the SI system to avoid confusion during exams.
### Revision Summary
- **Base quantities** in SI include mass, length, and time.
- **Derived quantities** are formed from base quantities; force is a prime example.
- Force is calculated using the formula \( F = m \cdot a \).
- Always differentiate between base and derived quantities to avoid mistakes in identification.