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Experts Suggest Replacing Definition of Kilogram

Posted by Zonk on from the still-won't-be-used-in-the-states dept.

fenimor writes "The kilogram is the only one of the seven basic units of the international measurement system defined by a physical artifact rather than a natural phenomenon. International team of scientists suggest replacing the kilogram artifact -- a cylinder of platinum-iridium alloy about the size of a plum --with a definition based on one of two unchanging natural phenomena, either a quantity of light or the mass of a fixed number of atoms. They propose to adopt either one of two definitions for the kilogram by selecting a specific value for either the Planck constant or the Avogadro number."

4 of 844 comments (clear)

  1. Nice but... by winterdrake · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    This kind of idea pops up every so often, usually doesn't pan out since it's too hard to get everyone to change.

  2. I'm in favour, the kg doesn't work for me by confused+philosopher · · Score: 1, Offtopic

    Being Canadian, I still use pounds to describe my weight as a human being, and a kilogram just doesn't do it for me. I'd be happier if they made it a number that more closely represents the American pound.

    But I think what they should do is simply find some natural occurance, that defines the current weight, and so even though the basis of the system would change, the product packagings, and my kg weight on earth wouldn't be changed.

    --
    Why slashdot? Why not?
  3. Re:I can't believe it by BigusDickus · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    "You people are in dire need of a life."

    Or someplace to go on a Saturday night.

  4. Re:I wonder... by Loconut1389 · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    Weren't there 9 rings and one to rule them all?
    err.. nm..