What is the metric system of measurement?
The metric system is a system of weights and measures in which all units are ten or multiples of ten. The metric system is a simplified, logical and precise framework that stands in contrast to the many illogical and imprecise units of measurement (many of which are based on parts of the human anatomy) historically used throughout the world. For instance, the meter, a basic unit of the metric system, is equal to a fraction of the circumference of the Earth (it takes 40 million meters to encircle the Earth). Another metric unit, the gram, is equal to the mass of a cubic centimeter of water. The metric system forms the basis of the Système nternationale d’Unités (SI), the English translation of which is “International System of Units.” The SI/metric system of measurement was developed by French scientists during the French Revolution (1789-99). First adopted in…
