An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A technique used in physics based on the fact that the various terms in a physical equation must have identical → dimensional formulae if the equation is to be true for all consistent systems of unit. Its main uses are:

a) To test the probable correctness of an equation between physical quantities.

b) To provide a safe method of changing the units in a physical quantity.

c) To solve partially a physical probable whose direct solution cannot be achieved by normal methods.

See also: → dimensional; → analysis.