Let denote the dimensional formula of the permittivity of vacuum. If = mass, = length, = time and = electric current, then:
Answer: B.
Or read the worked solution below. Jump to the steps ↓
Written solution
Step 1: State the relation using Coulomb's Law.
The electrostatic force between two charges and separated by a distance in vacuum is given by Coulomb's Law.
Step 2: Express the permittivity of vacuum in terms of the other quantities.
Rearrange the formula to solve for .
Since is a dimensionless constant, the dimensional equation is written as follows.
Step 3: Determine the dimensions of charge, force, and distance.
Electric charge is the product of electric current and time.
Force is the product of mass and acceleration.
The square of the distance has the dimension of length squared.
Step 4: Substitute the dimensions to find .
Substitute the individual dimensions back into the dimensional equation.
Answer: The dimensional formula of the permittivity of vacuum is .