Modern Definition of Time & Length Units

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  • Thread starter Thread starter LeoYard
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SUMMARY

The modern definition of the second is based on the duration of 9,192,631,770 periods of radiation from the caesium-133 atom, specifically at absolute zero. The meter is defined as 1/299,792,458 of a light-second. The discussion highlights the subjective nature of how individuals perceive and measure these units in everyday life, such as estimating height in feet rather than precise measurements. The definitions provided by the International System of Units (SI) are accurate and serve as the foundation for scientific measurements.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the International System of Units (SI)
  • Familiarity with atomic physics, specifically caesium-133
  • Knowledge of the speed of light and its significance in measurement
  • Basic concepts of measurement and perception in everyday contexts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the SI definitions on scientific measurements
  • Explore the role of caesium-133 in atomic clocks
  • Investigate the historical evolution of time and length measurements
  • Learn about the practical applications of measuring units in various fields
USEFUL FOR

Scientists, educators, and students interested in the precise definitions of time and length units, as well as anyone exploring the practical implications of these measurements in everyday life.

LeoYard
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a) What is the modern definition of the time unit and the length unit?

b) How people actually Materially realize these units ?


(a) in the wiki, it reads:

Second:
Under the International System of Units, the second is currently defined as the duration of 9,192,631,770 periods of the radiation corresponding to the transition between the two hyperfine levels of the ground state of the caesium-133 atom.[1] This definition refers to a caesium atom at rest at a temperature of 0 K (absolute zero). The ground state is defined at zero magnetic field.

Meter: Today, it is defined as 1⁄299 792 458 of a light-second.

Would anybody like to answer question (b) ?
 
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I think in question b you are asking how you, I, or anyone else measures time or length. How we individually realize these units varies from person to person. I can look at a person and say oh, he is 6 feet tall. He is not actually exactly 6 feet tall, but i think he is around that height. I hope that answers your question.
 
Wiki has it correct for part (a).

I'm not quite sure what you are asking in part (b).
 
perhaps the OP is wondering how we actually physically implement a meter, or a second.
 

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