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. .here.
But there needs to be an "economy of explanation" principle applied
A good, scientific interpretation of using units might not serve aof
struggling introductory physics student very well. The student probably
doesn't have the capacity to appreciate the subleties and higher levels
thought needed to critically evaluate the intricacies of dimensionalanalysis.
units
Case in point:
It was stated that 3 apples + 2 oranges = 5 pieces of fruit, thus,
different units can be added.
This will lead the student to conclude that 4 Newtons + 5 Dynes = 9
of force. Or worse yet, 2 grams times 5 km/hr^2 = 10 units of force.that
I would encourage the more advanced students to examine the theoretical
underpinnings of dimensional analysis, while telling the less advanced
students that "3 apples + 2 oranges" cannot be added! For a student
is struggling with algebra and adds 2 kg + 4 N = 6 (whatever units),going
into a detailed explanation of unit analysis might be a ratherinefficient
and ineffective use of time.
. . .