ISSN:
1573-0956
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
,
Physics
Notes:
Abstract Two types of systems of units have been formed. The commercial is a system of weights and measures, such as the metric, defined by civil law. The scientific is a system of physical units generated through use of scientific laws which link corresponding quantities. The International System of units, denoted SI, was established in 1960 by the General Conference of Weights and Measures. The set of SI units included therein is the only comprehensive, coherent system of physical units. There is only one SI unit, whose value is unambiguous, for each physical quantity. Included in the SI, but not in any CGS system, are the volt, ampere, ohm, and watt, which are the only units used for measurement of the corresponding electrical quantities. Also included in the SI are prefixes used to form non-coherent, decimal multiples and sub-multiples of SI units. A few other units, such as the day, degree of arc, and degree Celsius may be used with SI units. Precepts for use of the SI, conversion tables, and geophysical constants expressed in SI units are given.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01449764
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