How did defining an inch with barley grains have both pros and cons?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the historical definition of an inch as the length of three barley grains placed end to end. Participants are exploring the advantages and disadvantages of using such a natural standard for measurement.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the consistency of barley grain sizes and whether this variability undermines the reliability of the inch as a standard measure. They are also considering the implications of using familiar measurements versus more abstract ones.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing initial thoughts and prompting further exploration of the topic. Some guidance has been offered to think critically about the nature of standard measurements.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on the need for exactness in measurements, and participants are reflecting on how personal familiarity with certain units can influence understanding and visualization.

frozen7
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Long ago in england, the inch was defined as the lengthof three barley grains placed end to end. In what ways was this a good way to define a standard? In what ways was this a poor way to define a standard?

Does anyone know how to answer this question?

:smile:
 
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Yes- you answer it by THINKING! I doubt that there is any good way to help you here short of giving you the answer- and that isn't the point of the question. Think about what you need to have a "standard" measure.
 
Is it because all barley are similar in size?
and it could be a bad way since not all barley same in size actually?
 
That's a good start! Now what other reasons can you come up with?
 
Consider that fact that some things are common and easy to visualize. For instance, I live in America so I can visualize a mile. I have grown up with it as a standard unit of measure. But ask me to run a kilometer and I'm stuck. With someone common measurements can have more meaning as more people understand them.

As for the cons, you have a good start. Exactness is the key.
 

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