Units — force in the C.G.S. system: Identify the correct name of the force unit in the centimetre–gram–second (C.G.S.) system of units.

Introduction / Context:
Unit systems matter when converting measurements and interpreting formulas. The C.G.S. system uses centimetre, gram, and second as base units, leading to a distinct force unit compared with the S.I. system (M.K.S.).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• C.G.S. base units: cm, g, s.
• Force defined via Newton’s second law F = m * a.
• Compare with S.I. base units: m, kg, s.

Concept / Approach:

In C.G.S., 1 dyne is the force that produces an acceleration of 1 cm/s^2 in a mass of 1 g. In S.I., the corresponding unit is the newton (1 N = 1 kg·m/s^2). The symbol “kg” is mass, not a force unit, and “Pascal” is pressure, not force.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Conversion: 1 N = 10^5 dynes (since 1 kg = 10^3 g and 1 m = 10^2 cm).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Newton (b) is the S.I. unit; kg (c) is not a force unit; “All of the above” (d) cannot be true; Pascal (e) is a pressure unit equal to N/m^2.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing mass with force; mixing S.I. and C.G.S. units; treating pascal as a force instead of pressure.

Final Answer:

Dyne