What are the advantages scientists have using SI units as standard units of measurement?

Answer 1

1. It's a decimal system advancing in powers of ten. Others, like the Imperial, used a confusing mess of multiples:

12 inches = 1 foot,

3 feet = 1 yard,

22 yards = 1 chain, etc.

2. The SI is based on simple, basic dimensions of mass (kilogram), length (metre) and time (second). Other units are some combination of these and can always be referred back to the basics. There are a few other fundamental units - go to Wikipedia and look under SI.

3. Now that SI is widely used, there is much less confusion about quantities.

4. Uniformity also eliminates confusion. The U.S. (short) ton is 2,000 pounds. The Imperial (long) ton is 2240. The U.S. and Imperial gallons are also different, so U.S. gas mileage is not as good as British petrol mileage - for the same car!

5. Scientifically, if I describe an alloy of steel by weight of constituents per 1000 kg, you can make that exact same metal even without a sample. If I give you exact by-weight measurements for concrete in kilograms, you can make the same concrete to the same specifications.

Answer 2

Using SI units provides a universal standard for scientists to communicate and collaborate across different fields and countries. It ensures consistency and accuracy in measurements, which is essential for conducting meaningful scientific research. Additionally, SI units are based on fundamental constants of nature, making them stable and reliable for repeatable experiments.