Which system of units is coherent for mechanics?

In summary, the question of whether to use FPS, CGS, SI, MKS, or all of these in mechanics is based on the concept of coherence in units. According to Wikipedia, Maxwell applied the coherence concept to FPS, CGS, and SI, making them already coherent. As a result, the answer to which units to use would be all of these. However, in certain industries such as the airline business, different units may be used. It is important to always include units in calculations to avoid errors.
  • #1
core1985
34
2
Homework Statement
FPS, CGS, SI, MKS, All of these
Relevant Equations
As coherent system of units has only 1 as base unit and all derived quantities are formed also are coherent
So, should i write All of these as accodring to wiki pedia maxwell applied coherence concept to FPS, CGS, and SI is already coherent so answer will be All of these ?? Am i right or MKS because question is restricted to mechanics only ?
 
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  • #2
core1985 said:
Homework Statement:: FPS, CGS, SI, MKS, All of these
Relevant Equations:: As coherent system of units has only 1 as base unit and all derived quantities are formed also are coherent

So, should i write All of these as accodring to wiki pedia maxwell applied coherence concept to FPS, CGS, and SI is already coherent so answer will be All of these ?? Am i right or MKS because question is restricted to mechanics only ?
Units serve a purpose. Their use is usually determined by the environment they are used in. If you live in Europe, then SI units are the normal. Except you work in the airline business, where feet and miles and pounds are used. If you live in the US, then things become a bit complicated, as it depends on the industry. The famous Mars lander fail 1999 was due to the fact that Lockheed and NASA used different systems and didn't communicate it.

This is another reason units should always by dragged through the entire calculation. Then it doesn't matter which ones are used, because they are part of the figures.
 
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Related to Which system of units is coherent for mechanics?

1. What is a coherent system of units for mechanics?

A coherent system of units for mechanics is a set of units that are defined in a way that all equations and measurements in mechanics can be expressed without the need for conversion factors. This means that all units are related to each other by simple numerical factors, making calculations and measurements easier.

2. What are the advantages of using a coherent system of units in mechanics?

The main advantage of using a coherent system of units in mechanics is the simplification of calculations and measurements. It also allows for easier understanding and comparison of results, as all units are related to each other by simple numerical factors. Additionally, using a coherent system of units can reduce the chances of errors and mistakes in calculations.

3. What are the commonly used coherent systems of units for mechanics?

The most commonly used coherent systems of units for mechanics are the SI (International System of Units) and the CGS (Centimeter-Gram-Second) system. The SI system is the most widely used and is based on the meter, kilogram, and second as base units. The CGS system is based on the centimeter, gram, and second as base units and is commonly used in scientific research.

4. How do you convert between different coherent systems of units?

To convert between different coherent systems of units, you can use conversion factors. These factors are derived from the relationships between the base units of each system. For example, to convert from meters to centimeters, you would multiply the value in meters by 100, as 1 meter is equal to 100 centimeters in the SI system.

5. Why is it important to use a coherent system of units in mechanics?

Using a coherent system of units in mechanics is important because it ensures consistency and accuracy in calculations and measurements. It also allows for easier communication and comparison of results between different scientists and researchers. Without a coherent system of units, there may be discrepancies and confusion in the interpretation of data and results.

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