Chapter 2, Problem 116A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The advantage of SI units over the commonly used units in United States needs to be explained. Also, the disadvantage of using SI unit needs to be explained, if possible.

Concept introduction:

The International System of Units or SI units are the modern form of metric system. The second (s) is the SI unit of time, metre (m) is the SI unit of length, kilogram (kg) is the SI unit of mass), ampere (A) is the SI unit of electric current etc.

Answer to Problem 116A

SI units have many advantages. The main advantage of SI is that there is only one unit for the each quantity that means the conversion from one unit to another unit is not required and student does not have to memorize any conversion factor.

States customary units are the system of measurements commonly used in United States. US system uses imperial system which is overly confusing and doesn't really map well.

The only disadvantage of the SI unit is that it is somewhat difficult to change the SI units to the other systems.

Explanation of Solution

Almost every scientist is familiar with the SI units as it provides easy communication. The rules for converting the SI units are very simple. The main advantage of SI is that there is only one unit for the each quantity that means the conversion from one unit to another unit is not required and student does not have to memorize any conversion factor. United States customary units are the system of measurements commonly used in United States. US system uses imperial system which is overly confusing and doesn't really map well.

Metric system is better than for calculations because it gives the accurate answer, and much easier to do the math.

The only disadvantage of the SI unit is that it is somewhat difficult to change the SI units to the other systems.