Dimensions

I was taught in university science classes that the dimensions on the left side of an equation should match the dimensions on the right.  I had trouble applying this to Einsteins equation because energy is expressed in so many ways (joules, foot-pounds, kilowatt hours).  I finally figured out that the right way to look at it is energy = force times distance and force = mass times acceleration and acceleration = distance divided by time squared.  Combining these gives energy = mass times distance squared divided by time squared, which, of course, matches the dimensions on the right side of the equation.

My next blog will give an example.

Another Recommendation

NO They Can't by John Stossel.  When I finish reading my copy I will give it to my liberal nephew, Mike, who, of course, won't read it.  Maybe it is because he has never [well, almost never] worked in the private sector.  Hi, Kevin.

My quest for units

E = mc^2: Solving the Equation

Click on the line above

Curious

Why is a twin billing a double feature at the movies but a double header at the ball park?  Double feature is related to feature film, but where does header come from?  You may have guessed that twin billings was a crossword puzzle clue and I filled in the wrong answer first.  I always use pencil.

Minimum Wage

Received by e-mail:
"No, volunteering does not violate minimum wage law. If there is no wage and no expectation of a wage, then how can a minimum wage apply? "

I'm sure he is correct about the letter of the law.  That means I can work for the minimum wage or for free but for nothing in between.  Does that make sense?

The minimum-wage law is generally considered to be a restriction on employers but it is also a restriction on would-be employees.  This keeps some people, especially young people without experience, out of the work force.  This can't be good.

Minimum Wage Question

Does volunteer work violate minimum wage laws?  If not, why not?

The Thomas Sowell Reader

He brings extensive research and clear thinking to a wide variety of subjects.  Recommended.  So is his book Basic Economics.