"Hooper, Bill and or Barbara" wrote:
>
> 1 Gm = 1000 Mm
> 1 Mm = 1000 km
> 1 km = 1000 m
> 1 m = 1000 mm
> 1 mm = 1000 �m
> 1 �m = 1000 nm
>
> Admittedly, the prefix centi, which is in common use for centimetres, does
> not fit this pattern of steps of 1000 . However, it can be taught as a
> special exception. The prefixes deci, deka and hecto also do not fit this
> pattern but they are seldom used anyway, so they can be largely ignored.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bill Hooper
What is this idea about only using 1000-multiples?
The cm and cL are two of the most useful units in everyday-metric system.
The might not fit in some 1000-pattern but that is no reason to prevent people
from using them. Ordinary people don't care about 1000-patterns.
Here are som really nice and useful units that we use in Sweden (and Europe):
Centiliters; perfect for sodacans etc. 33cL , 50cL NOT mL, they are too
small, come in vast numbers with unecessary zeros.
Deciliters; for cooking.
Centimeters; always used.
Millimeters; when centimeters are too big.
Decimeters; in common language. ("It was only a few decimeters between them.")
Hectograms; We rather say "three hectos" than "threehundred grams".
The metric system has been around for over 100 years overhere and the units
above are some of those that turned out to be useful. There is no reason not
accepting them.
