Re:Why scientists are redefining the kilogram
by Osmium on Thursday October 26, 2017 @02:21PM
(#15561560)
> A "mole" is a unitless quantity. Literally it's just a number.
True, but it's defined relative to the kg. It's the quantity of Carbon-12 atoms in 12g of Carbon-12.
As for why it isn't an 'simpler' number, it's because if you want a standardized definition of something you have to have a reliable reference. Which is precisely why the kg itself is being redefined.
Side-note: the act of creating this ultra-pure kg of Si-28 has actually created a lot of useful science in its own right, which is nice.
True, but it's defined relative to the kg. It's the quantity of Carbon-12 atoms in 12g of Carbon-12.
As for why it isn't an 'simpler' number, it's because if you want a standardized definition of something you have to have a reliable reference. Which is precisely why the kg itself is being redefined.
Side-note: the act of creating this ultra-pure kg of Si-28 has actually created a lot of useful science in its own right, which is nice.