MegaBox at 16:42, 21 December 2005

2005-12-21T16:42:48Z

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The '''metric system''' is a system of units for measurement developed in late [[18th century]] [[France]] to replace the disparate systems of measures then in use with a unified, natural and universal system. In the early metric system there were several fundamental or base units, the [[grad (angle)|grad]] or ''grade'' for angles, the [[meter]] for length, the [[gram]] for weight and the [[liter]] for capacity. These were derived from each other via the properties of natural objects. Other units were derived from these fundamental units.

Multiples and submultiples of metric units are related by powers of ten; the names for these are formed with [[SI prefix|prefixes]]. This relationship is compatible with the decimal system of numbers and it contributes greatly to the convenience of metric units.

As the result of scientific progress, refinements, and different choices of [[Units of measurement#Base and derived units|base units]], there have been a number of attempts at creating metric systems. The modern metric system (''modern'' meaning post-1960) is now widely used throughout the world and is called the [[SI|International System of Units (SI)]].

Metric system - Revision history

MegaBox at 16:42, 21 December 2005