To identify the dimensionless factor, we apply the principle of homogeneity of dimensions, which states that every term in a physical equation must possess the same dimensions .
- Determine dimensions of constants: In the equation F=αt2+βt, the dimensions of force (F) are [MLT−2] .
- For the term αt2: [α][T2]=[MLT−2]⇒[α]=[MLT−4].
- For the term βt: [β][T]=[MLT−2]⇒[β]=[MLT−3].
- Test the options:
- Option A (αt/β): Dimensionality is ([MLT−4]⋅[T])/[MLT−3]=[MLT−3]/[MLT−3]=[M0L0T0]. This factor is dimensionless.
- Option D (βt/α): Dimensionality is ([MLT−3]⋅[T])/[MLT−4]=[MLT−2]/[MLT−4]=[T2]. This is not dimensionless.
Therefore, the factor αt/β has no dimensions.